Examining Graduate Employability Outcomes: A Ghanaian Technical University Case Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26437/06vq3t72Keywords:
CBT. graduate employability. technical universities. TVET. tracer studyAbstract
Purpose: The study examines the employability outcomes of Technical University graduates in Ghana, using Accra Technical University as a case study, with emphasis on employment characteristics, alignment of academic training and industry sectors, and labour-market transition dynamics.
Design/Methodology/Approach: The study adopted a quantitative cross-sectional survey design. Using a snowball sampling method, data were collected from 1,323 graduates of Accra Technical University via a 32-item structured online questionnaire administered over a three-month period. The data were analysed using descriptive statistical techniques.
Research Limitation: The focus on a single institutional case may limit the generalisability of the findings.
Findings: The study found that 76.11% of sampled graduates were employed, largely in industries aligned with their academic disciplines. The private sector accounted for the largest share of employment (37.26%). Sectorally, graduates were predominantly engaged in Administrative/Support Services (14.93%), Health Care/Social Assistance (11.55%), and Manufacturing/Engineering (10.42%), while critical sectors such as Extractives, Utilities, and Agriculture collectively absorbed less than 7% of graduates. Over half (54.88%) commenced job searches post-graduation, whereas 23.89% secured first employment more than one year after completing their university studies. Personal and social networks emerged as key facilitators of labour market entry.
Practical Implication: The findings provide evidence to inform institutional and industrial stakeholders in advancing sustainable industry-relevant technical higher education in Ghana.
Social Implication: The study offers evidence-based insights to support national policy development and implementation aimed at enhancing employability among Ghanaian Technical University graduates.
Originality / Value: The study advances scholarship on employability outcomes in developing economies by providing institutional, graduate-reported evidence that integrates education and labour-market dynamics across the Technical University landscape in Ghana.
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