Abstract

In an increasingly competitive job market, the ability of graduates to secure meaningful employment hinges not only on academic qualifications but also on the practical skills they possess. Postgraduate students, in particular, face the dual challenge of mastering complex theoretical concepts while simultaneously developing the competencies that employers demand. In this context, on-the-job training (OJT) emerges as a crucial educational strategy that allows students to gain hands-on experience and cultivate essential employability skills. Mumbai, as India’s financial and commercial hub, offers a dynamic environment for postgraduate students to engage in diverse industries, ranging from technology to finance and creative sectors. Despite the wealth of opportunities, there remains a significant gap between the skills taught in academic institutions and those required by employers. This disconnect often results in graduates who are well-versed in theory but lack the practical expertise needed to thrive in the workplace. The purpose of this research is to examine the impact of OJT on building employability skills among postgraduate students in the Mumbai region. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and in depth interviews with participants from various fields of study, including management, engineering, and arts. By investigating the experiences of students who have participated in OJT programs, this study aims to identify the specific skills that are enhanced through practical training and to assess how these skills influence job readiness and career outcomes. Despite the benefits, challenges such as limited guidance and workload were also identified, suggesting areas for improvement in OJT programs. This research underscores the importance of integrating OJT into postgraduate curricula to better prepare students for the competitive job market and enhance their overall employability. The study concludes with recommendations for educational institutions and industry stakeholders to optimize OJT opportunities for the benefit of future graduates.

Authors

Helen Selvaraj
The South Indians’ Welfare Society’s N.R. Swamy College of Commerce & Economics and Smt. Thirumalai College of Science, India

Keywords

OJT, PG Students, Curricula, Employability Skills