A Diploma Isn’t Enough: Focus on Skills, Not Just Grades
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64591/g9q88f38Keywords:
Workplace readiness, Skills gap, Philippine educationAbstract
This essay critiques the long-standing belief in the Philippines that a diploma alone secures success. While academic achievements are celebrated, many Filipino graduates struggle in the workplace due to a lack of practical skills. The text calls for a cultural and institutional shift in education—one that values real-world competencies equally with grades. Drawing on recent studies, it urges schools and policymakers to design programs that prioritize adaptability, technical proficiency, and meaningful work, ensuring that diplomas reflect both knowledge and the ability to thrive professionally.
References
Alilio, M., Bautista, L., Capariño, V., Tubu, J., & Manaois, J. (2024). Quality of work-life: Its moderating role on Filipino Gen Z’s occupational self-efficacy and organizational commitment, 2, 392–402. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.12737808
Bustos, R. (2024). Bridging the gap: Aligning higher education priorities with the shifting job landscape in the Philippines. Recoletos Multidisciplinary Research Journal, 12, 9–24. https://doi.org/10.32871/rmrj2412.01.02
Melguizo, Á., & Perea, J. (2016). Mind the skills gap! Regional and industry patterns in emerging economies. https://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.1.4001.9607
Nyström, A. S., Jackson, C., & Salminen Karlsson, M. (2018). What counts as success? Constructions of achievement in prestigious higher education programmes. Research Papers in Education, 34(4), 465–482. https://doi.org/10.1080/02671522.2018.1452964
Velasco, M. (2012). More than just good grades: Candidates’ perceptions about the skills and attributes employers seek in new graduates. Journal of Business Economics and Management, 13, 499–517. https://doi.org/10.3846/16111699.2011.620150
Downloads
Published
Issue
Section
License
Copyright (c) 2025 STOCK KNOWLEDGE GAZETTE

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.


