Skills Gap & Competitive Development: the problem of competitiveness balance in the “higher education–labor market” ecosystem

The article is devoted to the systematic analysis of the skills gap phenomenon and its connection with competitive development on the example of the fields of activity requiring higher education. It is shown that there exists a dichotomy of the skills gap according to the criterion of relative competitiveness of higher education and the labor market: upward gap vs downward gap. Specificity of the skills gap in the case of reproductive functioning and in the case of competitive development or decline, as well as qualitative and quantitative aspects of the skills gap are analyzed. Taking into account the competitiveness of higher education and the labor market, the best world models of effective interaction between universities and employers, the author substantiates a framework model of the level dichotomy of the skills gap according to the criterion of competitiveness in the “higher education – labor market” ecosystem. The natural missionary leadership of true higher education in comparison with the real sector of the economy is argued. The relevant conceptual and terminological apparatus has been supplemented. The reasons for the skills gap are considered and methods for its optimization are proposed, taking into account the needs of competitive development of both higher education and the labor market. It is proposed to use the relevant ratings as an indicator of competitiveness. Understanding the characteristics of the skills gap and the reasons behind it creates the basis for its monitoring and management for the sake of synergistic competitive development of higher education and the labor market. Based on the results, recommendations for optimizing the skills gap for its developmental effect are formulated. This is important to ensure sustainable economic development, enhancement of defense and security capabilities, post-war recovery of Ukraine, and its European integration as a strong European state.