Investigating the relationship between tertiary education and employment in Malta’s labour market

Abstract

Education can be considered as one of the main features of a social formation contributing to the development of our economies and societies. The need for those in the labour force to develop their skills and knowledge has been rapidly increasing as job tasks are becoming more complex and job mobility increases. Such advances can raise doubts about the relationship that exists between education and economic development in terms of labour market needs. The diversity in educational provision in the small island of Malta is very promising however the problem of skills shortages in the labour market is still persisting and has become one of the government’s highest priorities. By studying the changing landscape of education expansion and the transition of graduates from university to the world of work, one can draw out the implications for the policies of governments and national identity. By identifying the aspects behind students’ choice of study, this study aims to explore the relationship between tertiary education and labour market trends of Maltese graduates and tries to recognize whether such a population has a skill mis-match or otherwise. Consequently, the effects of this mis-match on graduates’ earnings are measured. This was done using the University of Malta alumni students as a case study. The various research methods, including the manipulation of the primary and secondary data collected from different sources and a detailed description of the methodological approach adopted in this study will be presented. All the data gathered will be recorded, interpreted and discussed in depth. These findings will eventually help future researchers to determine what instigates skills gap among graduate workers and how this is affecting the development of Malta’s labour market. Moreover, this research will act as a surrogate measure to link the sectors of education and employment for the benefit of a healthier economy, which attracts foreign direct investment leading to employment, job satisfaction and a more sustainable economy.