Abstract:

Industry-academia linkage is a crucial modulator of graduate skill development. However, Pakistani higher education institutions currently have weak industrial linkage. The growing talent shortage is being considered as a direct outcome of gap between industry and academia. This research work is done to evaluate the gap between industry and academia, which is making the transition of graduates from the academic to a corporate world increasingly challenging. The qualitative research is done by conducting 22 in-depth semi-structured interviews with the industry practitioners from different service organizations located in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Findings highlight the most important skills that could enhance graduates’ employability, including- adopting a responsible attitude towards work, excellent communication skills, persistence and commitment, teamwork and IT skills. Academic institutions need to- hire faculty from industry, revise their curriculum and assessment criteria, and promote case study culture to facilitate the graduates’ transition from the academic to the corporate world.

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