Is higher education developing work skills?

Research by recruiter Adecco of more than 500 companies raises the issue of whether universities are sufficiently preparing young people for the world of work.

More than half of employers (53 per cent) argue that university graduates have unrealistic expectations of working life and more than one in three (36 per cent) believe that the education system isfailing to equip young people with the critical skills required by British businesses.

Graduates agree, with nearly half (46 per cent) admitting that their degree failed to provide the right skills to enter the world of work.

According to employers, newcomers are found to be most lacking in interpersonal skills (41 per cent), and critical IT skills (41 per cent). A quarter of employers (25 per cent) report a lack of basic literacy and numeracy skills among graduate recruits.

Younger employees are also perceived to be less conscientious than their older colleagues. When comparing 25 and 40 year olds in the workforce, very few employers believe their younger staff members possess a better attitude towards timekeeping (4 per cent), productivity (4 per cent) or teamwork (6 per cent) than their senior peers.

Additionally, younger employees are seen to be much less likely to work long hours (6 per cent), go the extra mile (9 per cent) or show loyalty to their employer (1 per cent).

Conversely, the research highlights that under 25s have a strong entrepreneurial spirit (37 per cent) and are keen drivers of change (28 per cent) compared to their older counterparts.

Chris Moore, managing director of Adecco says, ‘Undeniably, Britain has one of the best and most advanced education systems in the world but it must deliver a talented, reliable graduate workforce that brings demonstrable value to UK plc. On a significant scale, employers believe it is failing to do that.

‘Although extremely valuable, a strong academic record is no longer a sufficient prerequisite for entry into today’s working environment. Collectively, we – the government, businesses and educators – must work together and take full responsibility for developing skills in line with commercial needs.’