An assessment strategy for the employability of HRM graduates in South Africa

Abstract

Orientation: The unemployment problem in South Africa has been explored from both supply and demand perspectives, but there is a gap in understanding industry expectations on graduate competence and market readiness.

Research purpose: This study investigates a labour market-driven assessment strategy to evaluate the employability of Human Resource Management (HRM) graduates in South Africa.

Motivation for the study: The study aims to ensure that graduate assessments align with industry needs, enhancing employability through industry-based methods.

Research approach/design and method: A case study design was used, selecting a university offering HRM qualifications and 196 employed HRM graduates. Supervisors of these graduates provided feedback on the alignment between university assessments and graduate performance. The study used a pragmatic approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative data collection.

Main findings: The data from 196 supervisors revealed eight key themes: assessments were seen as inappropriate, lacking industry focus, too general and needing industry collaboration. Respondents also suggested industry responsibility in assessments, linking students to industry, emphasising solutions to industry challenges, and calling for industry-based standards. Most respondents viewed current assessments as inaccurate indicators of graduate capabilities.

Practical/managerial implications: The study recommends adopting an industry-centric assessment approach to improve graduate assessments. This alignment could enhance graduate fitness for employment and the value they add to the industry.

Contribution/value-add: This study helps to align university assessments with industry expectations, increasing HRM graduates’ employability and ensuring assessments reflect the capabilities needed in the labour market.