Advancing Employability through Work-Based Learning: A Case Study of Guangdong University of Technology’s Application-Oriented Approach

Integrating production and education through hands-on learning has become vital for improving student employability and bridging the gap between academia and industry. This study explores how such integration can be effectively implemented in undergraduate programs at Guangdong University of Technology (GDUT), China. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research collected data from 196 faculty members and interviewed nine experts from academia and industry. The findings highlight that while work-based learning—such as internships, cooperative education, and practical training—is well-established, partnerships between the university and industry remain the weakest area. The study identifies key challenges, including inconsistent internship assessments and limited collaboration in curriculum development. To address these gaps, the research proposes a set of practical guidelines that emphasize AI-driven curriculum updates, standardized evaluation frameworks, and structured cooperation models between industry and educational institutions. These recommendations aim to make education more application-oriented and responsive to real-world needs. The study contributes meaningful insights for policymakers, educators, and industry leaders looking to enhance skill development and better prepare students for the workforce. By aligning academic programs with evolving market demands, GDUT’s approach is a potential model for other universities pursuing industry-driven educational reform.