Employability enhancement of business graduates in China: Reacting upon challenges of globalization and labour market demands

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to provide an assessment of business educational reform requirements in China, in the light of current employability needs.

Design/methodology/approach

After introducing the problem the paper discusses labour market demands for business graduates. The paper continues with a thorough conceptualisation of the concept of employability and current notions on career development, and concludes with proposals for reforming the business education curriculum.

Findings

Employability enhancement should be an integrated activity that is undertaken in close collaboration between different parties, and to eliminate recruitment bottlenecks, policies that affect both graduates' suitability and labour requirements are needed.

Practical implications

The paper is a useful source of information and advice for educators, employers, and business education students planning to invest in their future employability. The paper is meant to evoke discussion and to stimulate curriculum reform efforts.

Originality/value

This paper focuses on current labour market demands and offers insights for educational institutions engaged in optimizing curricula.

Citation

Zhiwen, G. and van der Heijden, B.I.J.M. (2008), "Employability enhancement of business graduates in China: Reacting upon challenges of globalization and labour market demands", Education + Training, Vol. 50 No. 4, pp. 289-304. https://doi.org/10.1108/00400910810880533