Quality Of Higher Education and Employability of Graduates from Selected Universities In Southwestern Uganda

Abstract

The study investigated the relationship between the quality of higher education and the employability of graduates from selected universities in Southwestern Uganda. The research focused on three main objectives: to determine the relationship between quality of curriculum and employability of graduates from selected universities in Southwestern Uganda, the quality of students enrolled in the University and employability, and the quality of teaching and employability of graduates from selected Universities in southwestern Uganda. Using correlational and survey research designs, data were collected through questionnaires and interviews, and analyzed with SPSS version 27 and AMOS version 28 for Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Findings revealed a strong correlation between quality of curriculum and employability of graduates from selected Universities in Southwestern Uganda (r = .594, p < .01), quality of students and employability of graduates in Southwestern Uganda (r = .589, p < .01), and quality of teaching and employability of graduates from selected Universities in Southwestern Uganda (r = .560, p < .01). The study concluded that modifications in the curriculum directly impact graduate employability, with curriculum enhancements improving employability. Curriculum content was identified as a significant predictor of employability, along with improved teamwork and change management skills. The relevance of academic programs was also crucial. Quality curriculum and academic grades were essential, while quality teaching and assessment improved employability. However, teaching methods were less significant in influencing employability. The study found that 60.7% of graduate employability was explained by the variables in the model: 35.2% by quality of curriculum, 17.7% by Quality of students , and 7.8% by quality of teaching, with 39.3% influenced by other factors. Overall, a positive association exists between the quality of higher education and employability of graduates from selected universities in Southwestern Uganda. xv Recommendations included periodic curriculum reviews involving industries, employers, and other stakeholders, a focus on students’ academic performance, conduct, and mentoring programs, and increased investment in faculty development, infrastructure, and other teaching and learning facilities.