ABSTRACT

This study examined the implementation of job-seeking and entrepreneurial skills education at Guangzhou Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) in Guangdong Province, China, aiming to enhance the employability of higher vocational college graduates. The research addressed gaps in vocational education by investigating the relationship between employability skills, academic performance, and employment challenges faced by graduates. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating a descriptive-correlational design and qualitative analysis. Data was collected from 224 graduates from the Business Management Department, specializing in Finance and Accounting and Music and Arts, using simple random sampling. The quantitative analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between the implementation of job-seeking and entrepreneurial courses and graduates’ employability skills. The qualitative findings identified key barriers, including rapidly evolving job market demands, inadequate technological competencies, and misalignment between educational outcomes and industry expectations. These results highlighted the need for vocational education reforms to meet labor market demands more effectively. Based on the findings, the study proposed an action plan to enhance the alignment of vocational curricula with market needs, improve technological training, and strengthen connections between education providers and employers. These recommendations aim to equip graduates with the skills necessary for sustainable and meaningful employment in Guangdong Province’s dynamic economy.

Keywords: Employability, entrepreneurial skills, vocational education, higher education, career
https://doi.org/10.57180/taik5693