This is a question that often crosses my mind: Are placements really the metric that should be prioritized when evaluating universities, especially during the admissions process?
When applying to universities, whether for a bachelor's or master's program, finding the ideal institution is always a Herculean task. It's not just about choosing a university based on a set of ideal criteria; it's more about ticking off a checklist that aligns with personal concerns or aspirations about the future.
However, the larger question shouldn't be, "Will I get placed? What’s the highest package? Who are the biggest and most reputable recruiters?" Instead, it should be: "Will the facilities and environment provided by the university help enhance my skills and make me industry-ready?"
In today’s world, where one can enhance their skills through online courses, certifications, or even remote internships at their convenience, why should placements still be the primary concern? Gone are the days when applying to a university/ job was followed by a guaranteed placement. The job market has become increasingly competitive, and unemployment is no longer an uncommon phenomenon in India. A degree or a university affiliation no longer guarantees a job.
Addressing the idea of holding universities accountable for placements, I believe these institutions should be designed to be both student- and industry-friendly. Universities should offer flexible course hours that accommodate working individuals, including part-time opportunities. Additionally, courses should integrate industry exposure, allowing students to apply what they’ve learned, sharpen their skills, and experience a work-based environment. Many graduates, even after completing their degrees, feel lost and unsure of whether to pursue higher education or enter the workforce. Moreover, adjusting to the work environment can be challenging. Therefore, enhancing students' skills through internships embedded within their semesters could be highly beneficial.
Such exposure not only helps students understand the work environment but also promotes personal development and ethical growth that stem from real-world experiences. Prestigious institutions like IIMs and IITs have also faced challenges in securing placements for their graduates. The notion of universities providing jobs, especially within the context of India, seems outdated and overly convenient. In fact, the desperation to secure employment has led to scams, such as the recent incidents where Indians were rescued from fraudulent job offers in Cambodia. This serves as a reminder that we need to reassess the idea of the necessity of being placed immediately after graduation.
It’s also not accurate to claim that the government has not provided enhancement programs and courses. The real issue lies in the lack of awareness about these resources and the pressures that push individuals into informal sectors, where labor laws are often violated. Furthermore, the fear of being replaced in a private organization can negatively affect both the psychological and physical well-being of individuals. There is also ongoing criticism of the younger generation being difficult to work with, but what is often overlooked is the underlying factors that contribute to their struggles in the workplace.
Therefore, the larger picture here is that rather than focusing solely on universities as providers of good placements and high salaries, we should prioritize building courses that emphasize skill development, industry orientation, and exposure. Universities should offer access to industry talks, workshops, and internships that equip students with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the job market.
As unemployment rates rise, it’s crucial to reconsider what we truly seek in a job, whether it's the quality of work, the organization, the package, or the stability and growth potential of the role.