Exploring the Impact of Work Integrated Learning (WIL) on Student Employability and Industry Readiness: A Case Study of Accounting Students in Botho University, Gaborone, Botswana.
Year: 2025
Type: book-chapter
Abstract: The evolving dynamics of the global job market necessitate a change in how Universities equip their graduates with the relevant skills and competencies required for the workforce.In Botswana, one of the primary challenges faced by university graduates particularly those from the Faculty of Business and Accounting (FBA) is the lack of practical experience and exposure to real world industry environments.This lack of experience often leads to a mismatch between the skills acquired during academic training and competencies required by employers.As a result, many graduates face difficulties in securing jobs or struggle to transition smoothly into their professional careers.This study seeks to confront the challenge of enhancing graduate employability within Botswana with Telescopic insights into accounting students.It surveys existing approaches and initiatives in the Botswana higher education sector context and then evaluates a Work Integrated Learning (WIL) framework amongst accounting students in Botho University.A social constructivist approach using a qualitative methodology was adopted to undertake the proposed research.The target population included 20 Bachelor Commerce in Accounting students.These participants were purposefully selected based on their enrolment in courses that include WIL as a component.Purposeful sampling was used to ensure that participants had relevant experience with the phenomenon under investigation.A total of 18 students participated in the FGDs.These students were divided into three focus groups, each comprising six participants.The discussions were guided by a semi-structured interview guide that allowed for consistency across groups while also giving room for participants to elaborate on their experiences.From each focus group, three participants were purposively selected based on their level of engagement and the depth of insights they provided during the FGDs.A robust thematic data analysis which seeks to explicate perspectives, perceptions and expectations will be discerned amongst accounting students in order establish the contribution of WIL to enhance graduate employability.The proposed study is expected to make managerial and theoretical contributions to our understanding of attitudes and expectations regarding the current state of employability in the Botswana context using the Dual Learning model approach that sets the platform for vital areas of university practice in line with Sustainable Development Goals.
Institution: University of Botswana
Language: English
Subfield: Education
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W4417192532