Bridging the Gap: Link-and-Match Strategy for Sharia Economics Graduates in Islamic Non-Bank Financial Institutions
Abstract
Purpose:
This study examines the link and match strategy in higher education to bridge the gap between graduates' skills and industry demands, particularly in the Islamic Non-Bank Financial Industry (IKNB Syariah). By adopting Human Capital Theory, this research highlights the importance of aligning university curricula with labor market needs to enhance graduates' employability.
Design/Methodology:
A qualitative research approach with an inductive methodology was used to explore the effectiveness of link and match policies. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions (FGD) with 40 respondents, including students, government officials, education experts, and industry practitioners
Findings:
The study identifies curriculum misalignment, limited industry engagement, inadequate internship programs, and a lack of technology integration as key barriers to the effectiveness of link and match. However, competency-based curricula, industry partnerships, graduate involvement, and digital learning adoption significantly support graduate readiness for the workforce
Practical Implications:
Strengthening university-industry collaboration, implementing professional certification programs, and integrating technology into learning are crucial strategies to enhance the effectiveness of link-and-match policies
Originality/Value:
This research provides a comprehensive analysis of the link and match strategy in Sharia economics education, emphasizing the role of Islamic finance industry collaboration in improving graduate employability
Keywords
Full Text:
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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.29300/aij.v11i2.7617
DOI (PDF): http://dx.doi.org/10.29300/aij.v11i2.7617.g5456
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