SURVEY ON THE EMPLOYABILITY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES GRADUATES TO UNDERSTAND THE CRUCIAL FACTORS

Abstract

An academic degree is often regarded as a key to unlocking employment opportunities. With the rapidly evolving technological era, Arts and Social Sciences graduates experience significant pressure to secure employment upon graduation. In this study, we aim to explore the underlying factors that influence employability. The survey was conducted through a questionnaire within the Faculty of Social Sciences and Languages at Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka between 2018 and 2022. The sample encompassed individuals holding both Bachelor's and Honours degrees. The employment rates for the Honours degree program were 30.8%, 26.9%, 29.4% and 52.3% in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2022 respectively, while the Bachelor's degree program showed rates of 17.6% in 2018, 21.8% in 2019, 20.9% in 2020, and 11% in 2022. The employment rate for graduates within the first three months after graduation was recorded at 63.8% in 2018, 65.5% in 2019, 60.9% in 2020 and 74.4% in 2022. Conversely, the employment rates for ICT graduates were 75.4% in 2018, 66.2% in 2019, 79% in 2020 and 87.4% in 2022. Similarly, English Language graduates consistently demonstrated a satisfactory employability status, averaging 81.5% each year. Most graduates are engaged in temporary or contractual positions, representing 72.1% in 2018, 81.2% in 2019, 88.4% in 2020 and 84.2% in 2022. The findings suggest that an average of six months is inadequate for an Arts graduate to secure suitable employment. Improving career guidance and skill-enhancing programs are essential. Increased opportunities will bolster the skills expected from Social Science graduates by the industry.