Graduates lacking in key 'hands-on' skills

MANY graduates are unable to "hit the ground running" when they enter the world of business and enterprise, according to leading employers.

They say that these "raw" graduates are deficient in the practical application of theoretical knowledge.

Many of them fail to demonstrate leadership, self-management skills and initiative. There is also too much reliance on rote learning during the "pipeline" of second- and third-level education, according to 25 unnamed 'heavy hitters' from the public and private sectors.

The damning views were aired at a forum arranged by the group preparing a new strategy on higher education for the Government. The group is chaired by Dr Colin Hunt.

It notes that application and discipline are often seen to be lacking in new Irish graduates.

Some employers have to recruit abroad because of the lack of practical marketing training, and applied engineering and IT.

- John Walshe Education Editor

Irish Independent