In a surprising turn of events, India's top engineering graduates from the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) are facing a new reality: unemployment. Despite the rigorous academic training and the high expectations that come with being an IIT alumnus, a significant number of these graduates are struggling to find jobs.
The numbers are stark. According to a report from the Hindustan Times, 712 of around 2,000 students registered for the 2024 placements in IIT-Bombay - about 36% graduates - are yet to secure jobs. This is a significant increase from the previous year, where 32.8% of students remained unplaced. This issue is not unique to IIT-Bombay. A recent RTI data revealed that close to 8,000 IITians are still seeking employment after campus placements, with a significant number accepting job offers with annual salaries under ₹6 lakh.
So, what's causing this paradox? The answer is not straightforward and involves a mix of factors.
Firstly, there's the issue of global economic conditions. The world is still reeling from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent economic slowdown. This has led to a decrease in job opportunities, particularly in the technology sector, which is a major employer of IIT graduates.
Secondly, there's the issue of oversupply. With the number of IIT graduates increasing each year, the job market is becoming saturated. This is particularly true in certain sectors, such as software engineering, where the number of graduates often outstrips the number of available jobs.
Then there's the issue of skill mismatch. While IIT graduates are highly skilled in their respective fields, they often lack the soft skills required in today's job market. This includes skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are becoming increasingly important in the modern workplace.
Finally, there's the issue of unrealistic expectations. Many IIT graduates have high salary expectations, which can make it difficult for them to find jobs. This is particularly true in the current economic climate, where companies are often looking to cut costs.
In conclusion, the struggle of IIT graduates to find jobs is a complex issue with no easy solutions. It requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the economic, educational, and social factors at play. Only then can we ensure that India's top graduates can fulfill their potential and contribute to the country's economic growth.
0 Comments