Vietnam's new graduates lack key workplace skills, employer survey shows

A survey of 375 Vietnamese companies has identified critical skill shortages among fresh graduates entering the job market, highlighting a persistent mismatch between academic preparation and employer needs. The research found that new graduates excel in only one of six key competency areas assessed—digital literacy—while struggling significantly in several others essential for workplace success.

Time management and problem-solving abilities represent the widest performance gaps between graduate capabilities and employer expectations, according to the findings. These foundational skills are increasingly vital as Vietnamese businesses modernize and compete in regional markets that demand efficient project management and analytical decision-making.

The survey results underscore broader concerns about Vietnam's education system and its alignment with industry demands. While graduates demonstrate proficiency with digital tools and platforms, employers report frustration with newcomers' inability to manage workload priorities effectively or approach complex challenges with structured analytical approaches.

The findings suggest that Vietnamese universities and vocational training institutions may need to reassess curricula and teaching methodologies to better prepare students for real-world workplace demands. Industry experts emphasize that bridging these skill gaps requires closer collaboration between educational institutions and employers to identify competency requirements and integrate practical training components into degree programs.