Degrees Don’t Equal Jobs: Fixing the Employability Gap

Abstract

This paper addresses the growing disconnect between higher education and employment outcomes in the Philippines, highlighting the persistent employability gap faced by college graduates. Despite earning degrees, many young Filipinos struggle to secure meaningful work aligned with their field of study, contributing to high unemployment rates among new graduates. The paper explores how the misalignment between academic instruction and labor market demands—particularly the lack of practical skills, industry collaboration, and real-world experience—undermines graduate readiness. Drawing on recent data and research, it advocates for educational reforms focused on integrating internships, technical skills training, and stronger industry-academic partnerships. The study also emphasizes the need for societal recognition of diverse career paths, including vocational and non-traditional routes. Ultimately, the paper calls for a holistic approach involving schools, employers, and policymakers to bridge the education-to-employment divide and ensure that degrees translate into sustainable and fulfilling careers.