Promoting student employability through higher education

Higher education has expanded massively over the past two decades. More students than ever are enrolling, with global higher education enrollment jumping from 19% in 2000 to 43% in 2023. But here is the catch: more students in university does not automatically mean more students graduating. In fact, the graduation rate has only gone up from 17% to 26% in the same period and the share of graduates that land good jobs is even smaller. That is a big gap that requires careful consideration by universities and policymakers alike.

There are several reasons for this. One is related to the rising number of skills mismatches between higher education and the demands of the workforce. A diploma alone does not guarantee a smooth career path anymore. For example, digital skills are in huge demand, but universities can be slow to update their curricula to such realities.

In addition, economic growth has not kept up with the rising number of graduates in several countries. In lower-income countries especially, this has led to too many qualified people and too few quality jobs. The result? A growing number of graduates stuck in jobs that do not fully use their skills, or worse, struggling to find stable employment or employment at all. These are not the results students expect after investing in university education and at societal level, it does not increase social mobility.

Governments are paying attention. About 70% of national higher education plans now highlight employability as a priority. But universities need to play their part too: it is not just about getting students through to graduation, it is about making sure they leave with the right skills and opportunities. An increasing number of universities are adapting course curricula to meet industry demands, for example, by promoting entrepreneurship to prepare graduates for a gig economy or integrating practical experiences such as internships and cooperative education programs into the degree. But also, universities are strengthening career services to mentor students and connect them with employers.

Still, there’s a missing piece: not all students start at the same place. For those from underrepresented backgrounds, finding a quality job after graduation is even more complicated. Universities need to ensure their career services are cognizant of this fact.

Underrepresented students vary among world regions but often include those from low socio-economic backgrounds, refugees, Indigenous peoples, first-generation college attendees, and individuals with disabilities. Career building activities, such as internships

and networking opportunities are harder for them to access due to financial constraints, social biases and other structural inequalities.

Take unpaid internships, for example. These are a common stepping-stone into many industries, but they remain out of reach for students who cannot afford to work for free. Likewise, first-generation college students often lack mentorship and professional networks that can help them navigate career choices or connect with potential employers. Meanwhile, systemic biases in hiring and workplace cultures can create additional barriers, from a lack of awareness of the students’ unique needs to outright discrimination. Even well-intended employability programs may overlook some aspects like physical accessibility, leaving students with disabilities at a disadvantage.

So, what can universities do to level the playing field? A more holistic approach is needed; one that goes beyond general career services to offer comprehensive targeted support in collaboration with other university units and employers. Recognizing this, UNESCO IESALC and Lumina Foundation have collaborated on a new report highlighting 15 innovative and inclusive university initiatives designed to support students from low socio-economic backgrounds, refugee students, Indigenous students and students with disabilities to successfully transition into the workforce. Stay tuned!