Bridging the Gap Between Higher Education Curriculum and Industry Requirements: An Empirical Case Study from India

Abstract

The difference between the skills taught in higher education and demanded in the industry in India is studied highlighting challenges like curriculum relevance and industry expectations of employability skills in the present work. The purpose of the study is to determine the prominent gaps associated with the academic programs and the significance on employability of graduates. The research design adopted for this research work is Descriptive and Empirical Research Design and both primary and secondary data sources are used. Structured questionnaires were used for the collection of primary data from the students, faculty members and industry persons. For data analysis & interpretation, statistical tools like percentage analysis, correlation, regression analysis and chi-square test were used. The results indicate that some of the biggest obstacles to being employment-ready are outdated curricula, lack of industry interaction and lack of practical exposure among graduates. This study also underscores the increasingly critical role of skill acquisition in technical areas, communication and hands-on experience in the work world. The study indicates that effective closures between the employability gap are possible by strengthening industry-academy partnership and carrying out the needed reforms in the education system, with special emphasis on skills.