BUILDING A SEAMLESS PATH: ADDRESSING CHALLENGES IN THE GRADUATE TRANSITION FROM UNIVERSITY TO INDUSTRY IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
Date/Time
Date(s) - October 12, 2023
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Categories
PROBLEM STATEMENT
The transition from graduation in the Built Environment, particularly in Construction Studies and Management, to securing employment presents a significant challenge for students. Graduates are required to register with statutory councils, which often mandate a certain number of years of post-qualification experience based on individual qualifications. Furthermore, the high unemployment rate in South Africa adds to the complexity of finding suitable employment opportunities. Additionally, the role of infrastructure departments in facilitating career opportunities and aligning graduates’ skills with government infrastructure rollout plans is crucial in addressing these challenges.
Post-Qualification Experience and Statutory Councils
- How can the curriculum and educational programs in the Built Environment be adapted to better align with industry needs and enhance graduates’ employability in the construction sector?
- How does the requirement of post-qualification experience from statutory councils impact graduates’ employment prospects and career progression in the construction field?
- What strategies can be implemented or are currently being implemented to bridge the gap between graduating and gaining the necessary post-qualification experience, ensuring graduates have the opportunity to build their careers in the construction industry?
Unemployment Challenges in the Built Environment
- What are the specific challenges faced by graduates in the Built Environment, when it comes to transitioning from academia to securing employment in the industry?
- How does the high unemployment rate in South Africa affect the job market for graduates in the Built Environment, and what measures can be taken by infrastructure departments and the private sector to address this issue?
Role Of Public and Private Sector
- How can partnerships be formed between academia, industry stakeholders, statutory councils, government agencies, and infrastructure departments to address the challenges faced by graduates and improve their employment prospects?
- What specific initiatives or programs are being implemented by the government and infrastructure departments to ensure graduates have access to practical experiences, employment opportunities, and mentorship within the construction industry?
- What role can the private sector play in mentoring, upskilling, and supporting graduates to enhance their employability and make them industry-ready?
.