By Dr Anne Marie Thake from the Faculty of Economics, Management & Accountancy 

In the fast-changing job market of today, the significance of skills gained through higher education cannot be emphasised enough.

With industries and sectors evolving, the need for a workforce proficient in both technical and interpersonal skills become more crucial. For tertiary students, acquiring these skills is essential for personal and professional development, enhancing employability, and meeting the dynamic needs of the labour market. The Rector has been a vocal advocate for integrating essential skills into the tertiary education framework.

Tertiary education has traditionally focused on imparting theoretical knowledge. However, contemporary educational paradigms recognise that this alone is insufficient.

The importance of a holistic education goes beyond traditional academic instruction. Universities have a crucial role in shaping well-rounded individuals who can think critically, solve complex problems, and communicate effectively. The cultivation of such skills is integral to students' development. “It is about creating tomorrow’s citizenship and national identity” an academic said. 

Employers seek candidates who are not only knowledgeable but also skilled at applying their knowledge in practical, real-world situations. As an employer stated, “People come in with different skill sets and provided they can contribute and add value to the direction we are going, we consider them to be employable”. 

Skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and digital literacy are fundamental.

These enable graduates to navigate complex work environments, adapt to change, and contribute meaningfully to their organisations. The rapid pace of technological advancements and globalisation means our graduates must be versatile and adaptable. Our university must therefore continuously update the curricula to ensure relevance to industry demands.

To this end, the University of Malta (UM) has implemented initiatives aimed at equipping students with the competencies required by modern employers. For example, courses have been revamped to include a blend of theoretical and practical components. For example, the B. Com Public Policy offers work-based learning to students in their third year. The University promotes student placement types under the Corporate Research and Knowledge Transfer unit. Interdisciplinary programmes foster a holistic understanding and application of knowledge across different fields. 

The University maintains strong ties with public and private institutions and various industries, ensuring that its programmes remain relevant to current market demands.

Partnerships with businesses and organisations facilitate internships and project-based learning opportunities. "Such experiences are invaluable in helping students apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts and gain insights into industry practices and expectations," the Rector said. The university offers a range of workshops and courses aimed at enhancing specific skills, including leadership training, digital skills, and entrepreneurial workshops.

These programmes are often conducted in collaboration with industry experts, providing students with insights into the latest industry trends and practices. “Given today’s speed of change in technologies and business in general, no education system can provide the appropriate talents in the long run; this implies that corporations should invest in training and education … which calls for partnerships with universities” (World Economic Forum 2021, 27).

The University’s career services play a crucial role in preparing students for the labour market. Through career counselling, resume-building workshops, and interview preparation sessions, graduates can make a successful transition from university to the workplace. Career fairs and networking events connect students directly with potential employers. 

By fostering a skill-centric education and maintaining close ties with industry, UM effectively bridges the gap between academic learning and professional application.

Employers are increasingly recognising the value of UM graduates, who are not only academically proficient but also equipped with the practical skills needed in the workplace.

This alignment of education with industry requirements enhances employability and career readiness among graduates. In fact, the European Year of Skills 2023 was an initiative by the EU aimed at boosting the development and recognition of skills across Europe and bridging the skills gap in the Labour market.

The importance of skills in tertiary education reflects a forward-thinking approach to university education. By equipping students with a diverse skill set such as critical thinking, communication, digital literacy, teamwork, and entrepreneurship, and facilitating smooth transitions into the workforce, UM is not only enhancing individual career prospects but also contributing to broader socio-economic development.