ADDRESSING THE DISCONNECT REALIGNING THE ENGLISH CURRICULUM WITH GLOBAL WORKFORCE NEEDS

muh mahrup zainuddin sabri sabri

doi:10.30998/t66vfn25

Authors

muh mahrup zainuddin sabri sabri sekolah tinggi agama islam sumbawa Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30998/t66vfn25

Keywords:

Curriculum Gap, Work Readiness, ESP, Industry-Education Collaboration.

Abstract

This study analyses the gap between the English language education curriculum in higher education and the competency requirements of the global job market. Using a mixed-methods approach with a sequential explanatory design, data was collected through questionnaires administered to 20 graduates and 5 industry supervisors, followed by in-depth interviews and analysis of syllabus documents and job descriptions. The results reveal that 80% of graduates feel that the curriculum only prepares them for 40–50% of the skills needed in the workplace, with the largest gaps in English for Specific Purposes (ESP) and business communication. The industry perspective confirms that graduates need 6–12 months to become fully productive. Document analysis shows that only 30% of courses are practice-oriented. The study identified three factors determining work readiness: the availability of ESP courses, internship experience in global companies, and international certification. As recommendations, the study calls for the comprehensive integration of ESP (at least 40% of credits), the strengthening of certified internship programmes, and the establishment of sustainable strategic partnerships with industry. The implementation of these recommendations is expected to produce graduates who are not only academically excellent but also ready to face the challenges of the dynamic global job market.

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Author Biography

muh mahrup zainuddin sabri sabri, sekolah tinggi agama islam sumbawa

English Department

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