ENHANCING COMPUTER SCIENCE GRADUATES’ EMPLOYABILITY IN THE CONTEMPORARY LABOUR MARKET: A STEP TOWARDS DIGITAL INNOVATION FOR INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT

ABSTRACT

The growing disconnect between higher education institutions’ computer science curricula and the rapidly evolving demands of modern labour markets continues to pose significant challenges to graduate employability worldwide. This paper investigates how strategic curriculum reforms, digital skill integration, industry-aligned training programmes, and adaptive pedagogical approaches can better equip computer science graduates for productive careers in a digitally driven and increasingly inclusive economy. Using a convergent parallel mixed-methods research design, the study draws on survey data from 312 final-year students and recent graduates, semi-structured interviews with 24 industry stakeholders, and systematic document analysis of current job market trends and curriculum frameworks. The findings reveal persistent skills gaps in cloud computing, data analytics, cybersecurity, and professional soft skills. The study proposes the Digital Employability Integration Framework (DEIF) as a structured institutional response to these gaps. The paper concludes that a sustained, collaborative approach between academia and industry is essential for producing graduates who are not only technically capable but also equipped to drive inclusive digital development in their communities and economies.

Keywords: Computer science graduates, curriculum reform, digital skills, employability, inclusive development, work-integrated learning