Exploring the Relationship between Student Engagement and Role of Career Adaptability to Enhance Employability of University Graduates

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between student engagement, career adaptability, and the employability of university graduates. Utilizing a quantitative research design, data were collected from 450 undergraduate and postgraduate students at two universities in Guangzhou, China. Regression analysis was conducted, and statistical package of social science (SPSS) software was employed to examine the impact of key variables, including career adaptability, transferable skills, social support networks, and student engagement, on employability outcomes. The results indicate a significant positive relationship between career adaptability and successful workforce transition, suggesting that graduates with higher adaptability are better prepared for the job market. Transferable skills gained through higher education were also found to have a substantial impact on employability across various industries. Furthermore, social support networks, both within and outside the university, were shown to positively influence graduates' career development and job acquisition. The findings underscore the importance of integrating career adaptability training in universities by emphasizing the development of transferable skills and strengthening social support networks. Additionally, fostering student engagement through academic and extracurricular activities is crucial. The study concludes that a comprehensive approach that incorporates these elements can significantly enhance the employability of university graduates, enabling them to meet the demands of the modern workforce.