Industry Expectations versus Academic Skills: A Gap Analysis among Commerce Post-Graduate Students

Abstract

The present study discusses the difference between expectation of Industry- Academic Skill gap of commerce Post-graduates. The major objectives of this study are: To find out what industries expect from students in terms of their employability skills, to see how students are prepared academically and professionally when they enter the work place, and to determine how different and in need of adjustment are the set of employability skills they bring compared to the skills required by the industries. The study employs primary data which was collected from the students of post-graduate course in commerce schools and the representatives of the industries using the structured questionnaire. Data interpretation has been done through statistical tools like percentage analysis, mean score analysis and gap analysis. The results indicate that students have good knowledge theoretically but they face a lack of practice, communication knowledge, problem solving skills, leadership skills and digital competence needed by the industries. The study also emphasizes on the significance of internship, skill development and upgradation of the curriculum for improving the employability of students. Research highlights the importance of closer collaboration between industry and academics to overcome employability gap and enhance the employability preparedness of commerce post-graduate students.