Only 45% of Indian tech graduates employable amid skills gap
NEW DELHI, INDIA — With demand for specialized tech skills surging, India faces an employability crisis as only 45% of information technology (IT) graduates are deemed employable.
Staffing firm TeamLease Digital recently reported that despite over 1.5 million engineering graduates seeking tech jobs annually in India, hiring sentiment has worsened due to a “turbulent landscape” of muted growth, tightening budgets, and intensified evaluation of applicant skills.
As top outsourcing firms regulate hiring fresh graduates, sectors like banking, healthcare, and energy are expanding IT entry-level roles. But the widening tech skills gap remains a huge concern.
With demand rising for niche skills like artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and data science, the report said that it is becoming imperative for institutions to prioritize the integration of industry-specific training programs into their curriculum.
“A united front can be forged through the collaborative efforts of the industry, academia, and government, leading to relevant [programs] and curricula being designed,” added TeamLease Digital Business Head Krishna Vij.
“Government initiatives play a pivotal role in supporting skill development and research projects aimed at tackling industry-specific challenges.”
The report also found that employers desire technical expertise and soft skills from their applicants. Ramping up vocational training is crucial for equipping Indian youth with industry-aligned expertise to unlock their potential.
With India aiming to become a global tech leader, closing the skills gap by better-integrating academia and industry could unleash a new wave of innovation and growth. As tech disruptions transform work, lifelong learning and skill development are essential.
