Education & Career Trends: October 24, 2024
Curated by the Knowledge Team of ICS Career GPS
Excerpts are taken from an article published on indiatoday.in.
India’s engineering landscape, a key driver of innovation and industrial growth, is producing a vast number of graduates every year. However, employability amongst these graduates varies significantly across different branches of engineering.
According to the Weebox India Skill Report 2024, sectors such as Information Technology (IT) and Computer Science lead the way in employability, while traditional engineering streams like Civil and Mechanical lag behind. This blog explores the employability percentages across various engineering disciplines, shedding light on trends and implications for students, educators, and policymakers.
1. Information Technology (IT)
Employability Rate: 68.44%
The IT sector continues to reign supreme, boasting the highest employability rate among engineering graduates at 68.44%. With the rise of digital transformation, automation and artificial intelligence, the demand for skilled IT professionals has soared.
Graduates in this field possess a versatile skill set that includes programming, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data analytics, making them highly sought-after in both domestic and global markets. The adaptability and growth of the IT industry ensure that students in this domain are at the forefront of employment opportunities.
2. Computer Science Engineering
Employability Rate: 66.00%
Closely following IT, Computer Science Engineering (CSE) graduates enjoy a high employability rate of 66.00%. The sector benefits from a rapidly evolving technology ecosystem where artificial intelligence, machine learning, the blockchain, and software development drive global innovation.
While many CSE graduates are drawn to top tech firms and startups, others find roles in research, development, and entrepreneurship, further enhancing the employability outlook for this discipline.
3. Electronics & Communication Engineering (ECE)
Employability Rate: 58.91%
With an employability rate of 58.91%, Electronics & Communication Engineering (ECE) graduates find themselves in a dynamic field that connects hardware and software technologies. ECE remains essential to industries like telecommunications, consumer electronics and defence.
However, the rapid pace of technological changes demands constant upskilling as companies seek engineers adept in emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and 5G communication systems. This emphasises the need for universities to align curricula with current industry demands.
4. Electrical Engineering
Employability Rate: 57.69%
Electrical Engineering (EE), a core branch of engineering, has an employability rate of 57.69%. While the field remains crucial for sectors like power generation, renewable energy and infrastructure, its employment prospects are slightly lower due to the slower pace of industrial modernisation and automation in India’s traditional power sector.
However, as India shifts towards renewable energy and smart grids, the demand for skilled electrical engineers is likely to grow, presenting future opportunities for graduates who are ready to embrace these changes.
5. Mechanical Engineering
Employability Rate: 54.86%
Mechanical Engineering, long considered the backbone of industrial development, records an employability rate of 54.86%. The field is still in demand in the manufacturing, automotive and aerospace industries.
However, as these industries undergo digital transformation, engineers with proficiency in automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies stand a better chance of securing high-paying roles.
The gap between traditional mechanical engineering training and industry needs underscores the necessity for curriculum updates and practical exposure to cutting-edge technologies.
6. Civil Engineering
Employability Rate: 54.31%
With an employability rate of 54.31%, Civil Engineering graduates face challenges finding employment, largely due to a slowdown in the construction and infrastructure sectors.
However, the Indian government’s push for sustainable urban development, smart cities and modern infrastructure projects could revive opportunities in this sector. Civil engineers with expertise in green construction, project management, and urban planning may find themselves in better standing, provided they adapt to the changing demands of the industry.
Addressing the Employability Gap
The Weebox India Skill Report 2024 highlights significant employability gaps across engineering disciplines, particularly in traditional fields like Civil and Mechanical engineering. The disparity in employability between IT, Computer Science, and other core engineering streams can be attributed to several factors:
- Rapid Technological Change: Fields like IT and Computer Science are better aligned with the digital economy, offering higher adaptability and continuous innovation. In contrast, traditional branches face slower adaptation to technological advancements, impacting employability.
- Curriculum-Industry Gap: Many engineering curriculums, especially in core fields like Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical, have not evolved to meet industry expectations. Greater emphasis on industry partnerships, internships, and hands-on training could enhance job readiness.
- Demand for Specialised Skills: Emerging fields like AI, IoT, and renewable energy require niche expertise, which is often lacking in general engineering programs. Bridging this skills gap will be essential for improving employability in lower-ranked fields.
Future Directions for Engineering Education in India
The employability percentages from the Weebox India Skill Report serve as a wake-up call for engineering education in India. While IT and Computer Science graduates continue to thrive in the job market, the onus is on institutions to revamp their programs in traditional engineering streams to better prepare graduates for evolving industry needs.
With industry-focused curricula, hands-on learning, and a focus on emerging technologies, the future of Indian engineering graduates can see a brighter and more balanced employability landscape.
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(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the article mentioned above are those of the author(s). They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of ICS Career GPS or its staff.)
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