the business ladder

A recent survey conducted by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and the National Union of Students (NUS) has revealed that many students believe that universities should be providing a better understanding and learning opportunity based around workplace skills and competencies.

2,614 students took part, with 57% of those questioned stating that their higher learning institutions could be doing more to teach basic employability skills including customer awareness, team work and self management skills.

The students have a strong point, especially when it is known that 82% of businesses surveyed stating that these basic employability skills are the defining concern in their employability practises when recruiting graduates. A separate study only underlines these students concerns further, with 70% of employers encouraging those at university to better prepare themselves to be effective employees, rather than just good academics.

Whilst some institutions are already integrating such important teaching into their courses, the CBI is appealing to all universities to follow suit.

The Director for Education and Skills at CBI, Susan Anderson, has said; “Employability skills are the most important attributes that businesses look for in new recruits, but graduates are currently falling short of employers’ expectations.

“Competition for jobs is intense and graduate unemployment remains high, so students need to proactively develop relevant employability skills. But at the same time all universities need to explain these skills better and make sure they embed them in teaching.”

Aaron Porter, NUS national president, stated that “access to higher education opens the doors to a world of possibility but it is incumbent on universities to do more to work with both student unions and employers to equip their students to face the challenges the future brings.

“It is crucial that universities and employers work with students to provide proper signposting to ensure they are in a position to make informed decisions and to develop and realise their goals. A greater understanding of employability will enable today’s students to develop themselves, make a contribution and fulfil their potential tomorrow.”

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