The influence of scarce skills on employment opportunities amongst graduates of a selected university

Abstract

It has been reported that South Africa's joblessness rests in the perception that the unemployed usually have lower competencies than what is expected by the market. With the ever-increasing demand for competent workers due to industrial changes and the demand to become more economical worldwide, it would be anticipated that alumni would find employment without a struggle. Yet, contrary to expectations, joblessness has been increasing among youth who possess university and college credentials. This research study investigated the influence of scarce skills on employment opportunities of graduates of a selected university in the Western Cape in South Africa. Data indicate that graduates are improperly prepared for admission into the employment market. The study found that scarce skills are industry-specific despite individuals having general skills such as communication and other social competencies. The study provided evidence that scarce skills are usually industry-driven and comprise specialized and context-specific technologies and knowledge domains. It was observed that scarce skills often require experience and university education alone is inadequate. Therefore, a need exists for post-university education that is specifically directed at the acquisition of scarce skills. While graduate employability is largely dependent on scarce skills, it was found that recruitment and employment processes are challenged by unfair labour practices and a high degree of subjectivity. Often, employers do not employ based on skills but other criteria. Evidence was found that employment is influenced by factors such as networking and relationships among graduates and employers. This study followed a non-experimental design, which is often associated with qualitative research as structured questionnaires and interview guides were used to acquire the information. In respect of the information and evidence gathered as part of this study, the researcher recommends that universities should foster the development of scarce skills for the employability of graduates. Findings from the study showed that skills and experience were major reasons for the poor absorption of graduates in the labour market. The study also found that skills are affecting the employability of graduates and that university education is generalized and lacks specificity in addressing industry needs. The study also found evidence that mischief such as nepotism and relationship-based employment is affecting the employability of graduates. The study recommends the appointment of a scarce skills officer to be responsible for assessing and promoting skills-based curricula in universities.