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 Getting a good job is the only reason for most students and parents for going beyond high school to get a degree. Many who are already employed wish to improve their prospects towards which they take a break from their employment and go back to college to get a degree.

All is not easy for them as they face many barriers. The only way we can find a definite solution to this issue is through strategic collaboration between employers and higher education. We are at a risk of destroying our higher education system completely if we are not careful. It is vital to get this collaboration right especially in face of the global jobs war. The only way to ensure that our country thrives is to foster this partnership.

A clear mandate has been given by Americans for higher education. It may be impossible to justify if a good job does not come out of a degree. Luckily people still have faith in our education system as is evident with the fact that at least 97% of them say that education beyond high school is a must. If no efforts are made to connect jobs to higher education, this intrinsic trust will be shattered.

Most of our college drop outs and recent graduates are in jobs that do not actually need a degree. This is a shameful situation where there is no connection whatsoever between the degree we earn and the job we do.

It is obviously time for employers to look at their role in this issue before blaming the higher education system for not producing graduates with 21st century skills like ability to work in collaboration with diverse teams, effective communication and critical thinking. Not only our higher education system but employers too are missing the mark completely.

Executive leaders and CEOs of organizations must interact more with leaders of local universities and colleges. They must make things clear as to what they are looking for. Credit must be given to students by colleges for skills and knowledge acquired outside the classroom.

Different kinds of internships should be offered by employers including internships that are unpaid, paid, for college students, high school students and so on. This will allow students to receive work experience in keeping with their academics. Employers must give more opportunities for students to intern with them.

Similarly, faculty and teachers must be offered externships. This will allow them to understand today’s workplace and prepare their students accordingly. They will also be able to adapt their curriculum based on emerging needs.

To make sure prospective employees continue and complete their education, employees can adopt certain direct methods such as assisting employees with tuition if they wish to pursue education.
One of the major hurdles that prevent many in our country to get a degree is family responsibilities. Here again, companies could help by allow employees to work flexible hours and take classes during working hours.

It is in the evening hours and weekends that continuing degree programs are offered. Companies could help parents without childcare coverage by offering child care support.