Bridging borders, building careers: Elevating employability in India

The flux in work and skills is transforming not just companies, but it is also changing how educators prepare their students for a rapidly evolving global job market, where industries constantly seek agile, skilled, and globally minded professionals. How can universities ensure their graduates meet and exceed employer expectations?

In this interview, we explore key trends with Mithu Gupta, Senior Adviser - Graduate Employability (India) for the University of Sydney, delving into key initiatives that have transformed student employability. From corporate collaborations to tailored student support, we uncover how these efforts are shaping the future for University of Sydney graduates and fostering deeper ties with Indian industries.

1. How has the landscape of employability for international graduates in India evolved, and how does the University of Sydney align with these trends? 

We’ve seen the employability landscape in India shift quite a bit in recent years, driven by the evolving needs of employers and the growing emphasis on specialised skills.

Evolving employability landscape in India

1. Demand for specialised skills:

The Indian job market is increasingly favouring graduates with specialised skills, particularly in fields such as:

• Analytics: As companies seek data-driven decision-making, skills in data analytics are highly sought after.
• Cybersecurity: With the rise in digital threats, expertise in cybersecurity is becoming essential across industries.
• Consulting and Emerging Fields: There is a notable increase in demand for consultants who can navigate complex business environments and provide strategic insights.

Sectors like IT, finance, and healthcare are particularly keen on hiring graduates with these specialised skills, reflecting a broader global trend towards niche expertise.

2. Shift towards practical experience:

Employers are increasingly valuing practical experience alongside academic qualifications. Internships and project work are now critical components of the hiring process. Graduates who have engaged in real-world projects or internships are often preferred over those with purely theoretical knowledge.

3. Networking and soft skills:

The importance of networking and soft skills cannot be overstated. Employers are looking for candidates who can effectively communicate, collaborate, and adapt to dynamic work environments. This shift has prompted educational institutions to incorporate networking opportunities into their curricula.

We recognise how global today’s job market is, and we make sure our students build the skills to match. The University is strategically aligning its programs and support services to equip students with the necessary tools to thrive in this competitive environment, ensuring they meet and exceed the expectations of employers both locally and internationally.

2. How do you ensure alignment between the University graduates' skills and the needs of Indian employers?

We stay aligned with what Indian employers need by staying in close touch with them. The university actively engages with industry leaders through regular sessions and discussions.

By establishing feedback mechanisms with employers, the University continuously refines its curricula to equip students with the competencies that are most valued in the job market. Additionally, the university collects detailed data on market demands and student preferences, enabling it to tailor its employability initiatives effectively and prepare students for relevant roles.

We run comprehensive career development programs designed to enhance students' employability skills. These programs include workshops focused on job search strategies, interview preparation, and networking skills, all tailored to meet the expectations of Indian employers.

Furthermore, strategic partnerships with Indian institutions facilitate joint programs that reflect local labour market needs while leveraging an extensive alumni network that provides current students with mentorship opportunities and insights into industry expectations. Together, these initiatives ensure that graduates are not only well-prepared for the job market but also positioned to meet and exceed the demands of employers in India's dynamic landscape.

3. You've mentioned tailoring support for students with work experience. How do you identify and address their unique needs?

For experienced students, we conduct personalised discussions to understand their goals, preferred locations, and remuneration expectations. This helps us align their aspirations with market opportunities. We also provide sector-specific advice and ensure they have access to relevant roles that match their experience and expertise.

4. The employability initiatives you've executed have had a significant impact on both students and the University’s brand in India. How do you measure success in these initiatives?

We measure the success of our employability initiatives through tangible outcomes that reflect both student achievements and the university's brand reputation in India.

Key metrics include the number of placements secured, which indicates how well students are transitioning into the job market, and the establishment of collaborations with industry partners that enhance educational offerings. Additionally, the overall enhancement of the University’s reputation is tracked through feedback from both students and corporations, serving as a strong indicator of the impact these initiatives have on perceptions of the university. This feedback loop allows the University to refine its strategies based on insights gathered from stakeholders continually.

5. Looking ahead, what are your future plans to deepen corporate relationships and enhance employability for graduates in India?

Looking ahead, we plan to deepen our corporate relationships and enhance employability for graduates in India by expanding our corporate network, particularly in high-demand sectors such as analytics, IT, and finance. Future initiatives will include hosting more targeted employability events that connect students directly with industry leaders, providing them with opportunities to showcase their skills and gain insights into the job market. We’re also focusing on strengthening alumni engagement in India, as their experiences and networks can create valuable connections for current graduates.


You can reach out to Mithu Gupta, Senior Adviser - Graduate Employability (India) for the University of Sydney at mithu.gupta@sydney.edu.au