The Role of Higher Education in Facilitating Labor Market Integration

This study investigates the role of higher education in improving the employability of young graduates in the North-East region of Romania, highlighting its contribution to bridging the gap between academic training and labor market demands. The research aims to identify the determinants of graduates’ success in securing and maintaining employment relevant to their fields of study, while analyzing discrepancies between academic curricula and employer expectations. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines quantitative and qualitative methodologies to provide comprehensive insights. A structured survey was conducted with 200 graduates across disciplines and 11 employers in the region. Survey questions explored educational experiences, job search strategies, and the applicability of skills in professional settings. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), employing Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to identify key factors influencing employability. These determinants include career advancement opportunities, salary competitiveness, and practical application of academic training. Additionally, semi-structured interviews with employers offered nuanced perspectives on essential competencies such as communication skills, technical expertise, digital literacy, and adaptability. Results indicate that 82.5% of graduates secured employment post-graduation, but 60% were employed outside their academic specialization, underscoring a mismatch between training and labor market needs. Employers emphasized the importance of internships, university-business collaborations, and experiential learning to better prepare graduates for professional challenges. This study underscores the need for higher education institutions to align curricula with labor market requirements by fostering university-employer partnerships, incorporating practical learning experiences, and developing transversal skills. Enhancing career counseling services and promoting entrepreneurship and lifelong learning are essential for equipping graduates with the competencies needed for sustained career success in a competitive labor market.