Title: Skills mismatch and digital skill shortages in tourism: impact on graduate employment and implications for higher education

Authors: Samiha Chemli; Michail Toanoglou; Jose Luis Del Val Roman

Addresses: Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, Tourism/International Relations, University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain ' Department of Management, ESSEC Business School, Cergy, France ' Department of Mechanics, Design and Industrial Organization, Faculty of Engineering, University of Deusto Bilbao, Spain

Abstract: This study aims to contribute to understanding the relationship between digital skills, skill mismatch for tertiary education graduates, and employment rate. The study applies a longitudinal regression analysis across 32 countries over a span of seven years. The results indicate that vertical skill mismatch positively impacts the employment rate. In contrast, the absence of digital skills among tertiary education graduates, particularly in the travel and hospitality sector, negatively affects employment. The study provides valuable insights into the role of the higher education system in addressing skill mismatch within the tourism industry context. Additionally, it underscores the importance of conducting regular curriculum reviews to ensure alignment with the evolving demands of the labour market. These findings contribute to the ongoing discussion on improving higher education to meet industry needs and reduce skill mismatches among graduates.

Keywords: skill mismatch; digital skills; tourism graduate; employment rate; curricula.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTEL.2024.141834

International Journal of Technology Enhanced Learning, 2024 Vol.16 No.4, pp.447 - 465

Received: 20 May 2023
Accepted: 23 Jul 2023
Published online: 02 Oct 2024 *

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