Upskilling for Employability: A Study of Student Perceptions in Higher Education

Abstract

The modern job market is continuously evolving due to rapid technological advancements, globalisation, and increased competition among professionals. In this changing environment, academic qualifications alone are often not sufficient to meet industry expectations. As a result, the concept of upskilling has become increasingly important for students preparing to enter the workforce. Upskilling is the process of acquiring new skills or enhancing existing ones to improve employability and support career advancement. The present study aims to examine undergraduate students' perceptions of upskilling and to understand how they view its importance for their academic and professional development. The study focuses on identifying students' awareness of upskilling, their interest in learning new skills, and the factors that influence their participation in skill development activities. The research is descriptive and based on both primary and secondary data. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire distributed to 167 undergraduate students. The collected data were analysed using statistical tools, including simple descriptive analysis. The study's findings indicate that the majority of students recognise the importance of upskilling for improving employability and career opportunities. Many respondents believe that developing both technical and soft skills is essential to succeed in the modern workplace. However, some students face challenges such as a lack of guidance, time constraints, and limited awareness regarding skill development opportunities. The study concludes that continuous learning and skill development are essential for students to remain competitive in the evolving job market. Educational institutions, industries, and policymakers should collaborate to promote skill development programs that help students acquire industry-relevant competencies and prepare them for future career challenges.