SHOULD SKILLS BE INCORPORATED IN FORMAL INSTITUTIONS?

IN today’s fast-evolving world, the demand for highly-skilled professionals continues to rise, prompting discussions around the need for formal education institutions to adapt their curricula. Traditionally, degree programmes have focused primarily on theoretical knowledge, preparing students for academic excellence rather than the practical demands of the job market, especially in the scope of today’s economy. However, as industries become more complex and technology-driven, the question arises: Should skills be incorporated into formal education at the degree level? What is the rationale behind integrating skill-based learning within degree programmes, its potential benefits and the challenges it presents. Most institutions that do offer skills education only reward certificates.

Demands

The current job market is characterised by rapid changes, with employers increasingly emphasising the need for a skilled workforce that can meet the dynamic demands of their industries. While academic qualifications remain important, employers often seek graduates who can demonstrate practical competencies in addition to theoretical knowledge. Skills such as communication, critical thinking, problem-solving and technical expertise are becoming just as essential, if not more so, than a degree itself. For example, in fields like engineering, information technology, healthcare and business management, employers prefer candidates who possess hands-on experience with the tools, systems and technologies used in the industry – which is something you do not get from the theoretic knowledge of a formal institution.

This shift has created a gap between what universities offer and what the job market requires. As a result, many students graduate with strong academic knowledge but lack the practical skills necessary to thrive in their careers.Incorporating skills into degree programmes ensures that students graduate with a broader range of competencies, making them more attractive to employers. By focusing on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, students are better prepared to transition smoothly from the classroom to the workplace. For example, including real-world projects, internships and technical training within degree programmes can help students develop relevant industry skills, such as coding, project management and data analysis. Small colleges have tried to implement learning models that offer internships and experience as a part of the learning – placing the learner in the real feel for the real-world experience.

Gap

The gap between the academic world and the real world has long been a concern. Universities often focus on research and theoretical knowledge, while industries require professionals who can solve real-world problems. Incorporating skills into degree curricula bridges this divide by creating an educational environment that mirrors the practical challenges of the workplace. Collaborations between academic institutions and industry can lead to the development of programmes that are more aligned with the current needs of businesses, thus ensuring that graduates are job ready. Incorporating skills into formal education fosters a culture of lifelong learning, where students understand the importance of continuously upgrading their skill set. In a world where technology and job requirements are constantly evolving, the ability to adapt is crucial. This can include certifications, workshops and online courses that enable individuals to remain competitive throughout their careers.
On the other side of the mirror; one of the primary challenges of incorporating skills into degree programmes is the potential for curriculum overload. Traditional degree programmes are already packed with theoretical content that is essential for academic rigour. Adding practical skills, certifications and hands-on projects may stretch an already tight schedule, making it difficult for students to balance their workload. Universities would need to carefully design curricula that integrate both academic learning and skill development without compromising the quality of either. Especially in a world where skills-based jobs are seen as inadequate and low.

Investment

Incorporating skills into formal degree programmes often requires significant investment in resources. This includes hiring instructors with industry experience, developing partnerships with businesses and providing students with access to the right tools and technologies. For universities with limited budgets or outdated infrastructure, this may pose a significant challenge – especially in a small and underdeveloped country like ours. Ensuring that the necessary resources are available to all students is crucial for the effective implementation of skill-based learning. However, there is often resistance to change in educational institutions, particularly when it comes to altering established curricula. Traditional educational models that prioritise theoretical knowledge may face pushbacks. Overcoming this resistance and fostering an environment that embraces both academic and skills-based learning requires a cultural shift within institutions.

Also doing this in a society that perceives skills jobs as ‘low’ and views education as a status badge is even more difficult. Incorporating skills into formal degree programmes is not just a trend, but a necessity in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world. By providing students with a well-rounded education that combines both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, universities can better prepare them for the demands of the workforce.  By rethinking the structure of degree programmes, higher education can produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable, but also equipped with the skills necessary to succeed in their careers.

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