Employment Expectations of Final-Year Undergraduates at Private Universities: Challenges and Opportunities - A Case Study of Saint Thomas University of Mozambique

The present research investigates the employability expectations of graduates from Saint Thomas University of Mozambique (USTM). It aims to analyze the extent to which these expectations align with the current conditions of the Mozambican labour market. The study employed qualitative research, and a case study design was adopted. Fifty participants, including students and faculty members, were engaged in this study and gathered input from employers to understand the challenges and opportunities graduates face. The researcher selected 30 students, 15 lecturers, and five employers using random sampling techniques. Data were collected through interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis. The data were then analyzed using Nvivo software to generate codes and themes. The results indicated a significant gap between what graduates expect from USTM and the available employment opportunities. Among the issues identified by employers was skill mismatch, while graduates in Mozambique expressed frustration about limited internship opportunities and competitiveness in the job market. The study also identifies resource constraints and inadequate industry collaboration as systemic issues in private universities. Regarding their students' readiness for employment, this study recommends incorporating practical training into academic programs, strengthening partnerships between private universities and employers, enhancing career counselling, and promoting entrepreneurship as a viable career option. This research contributes to the broader debate on employability in Mozambique while providing insights for policymakers, educators, and industry leaders to create a more inclusive and effective pathway to employment for university graduates