There are skill gaps in the current workforce.
The lack of essential skills continues to hinder youths from securing employment. This is despite having a university education or even a higher degree. Several factors may have contributed to the increase in unemployment. 
Digital Literacy
In a digital world, every career demands the use of technology. And employers now demand a workforce who have extensive tech knowledge.
This is why youths need to familiarise themselves with the many facets of technology. This is one way in which they can enhance their digital literacy. With such skills, they can adapt to any application and device.
At Swinburne, our teaching and learning facilities feature state-of-the-art equipment and technology. Swinburne is the only university in Malaysia to offer Adobe Creative Cloud Suites to students.
24/7. Free of charge.
The university also utilises CANVAS, a learning management system that fosters innovation. Canvas also encourages and amplifies student engagement int heir learning process.
This technology knowledge and skills prepares youths for a digital workforce. Continuous exposure ensures students understand the importance of emerging technologies. Without a doubt, tech knowledge makes students trainable for, and by future employers.
Problem-solving skills
Problem-solving is a crucial skill youth must develop even while still in school. The days of rote learning are long gone. The education system now offers opportunities for youths to engage with real-world problems. 
For example, our Innovative Business Practice unit gives students authentic and open-ended experiences. Through this unit, businesses collaborate with students to introduce them to real-world problems. And for the students to provide business with solutions and recommendations that help address business issues.
Such study unit ensures students are adept at adapting to real-world challenges.
Communication Skills
Regardless of how brilliant an idea may be, it is meaningless if not communicated. This is why effective communication skills are essential, ranking high among the skills required for employability.
Swinburne offers the study unit Creative Thinking and Communication Skills where with appropriate tools and techniques, it helps develop students’ lateral thinking abilities. Students learn to express ideas and thoughts clearly, and not only prepares them for advanced studies but also for the future workplace.
Entrepreneurship
Not everyone wants to go into business. But it is important for young people to be entrepreneurial to succeed in the workforce of today.
Being entrepreneurial means being excellent in more than business. It requires youths to be motivated to complete tasks. They also need to have the right attitude, have initiative and be resourceful.
At the end of the day, employers are looking for employees who will bring change to the business. Being entrepreneurial has made as made Swinburne students achieve more than educational success.
Curiosity and Love of Learning
Employers are always on the lookout for those who are eager to learn. Youths need to cultivate their curiosity and to love learning as the future job market demands these qualities. Young people with this trait are valuable as they are an asset to any business.
Thus it is crucial for youths to engage in continuous learning and skill acquisition.
Swinburne‘s vision is to ensure people and technology work together to build a better world. It also elaborates on the University’s Moon Shot 2: Every Swinburne graduate gets a job. This article was written in conjunction with the United Nations’ World Youth Skills Day which falls on 15 July annually. The theme for 2023 is Skilling Teachers, Trainers and Youth for a Transformative Future.