English for employability: pragmatic communication skills in vocational education and training

In today’s interconnected and highly competitive global job market, proficient English communication skills have become a vital asset for students in vocational education and training (VET). This article explores the critical role of pragmatic English skills in improving the employability of VET students. It presents various researchers’ approaches and perspectives on pragmatic communicative skills, which served as the foundation for the development of the study on pragmatic English skills. The approaches to pragmatics emphasize that communication conveys meaning by highlighting the active and interactive nature of language, as well as the norms governing linguistic interaction. Pragmatic communicative skills refer to the ability to understand, produce, and adapt coherent and appropriate discourse according to social, intercultural, and professional contexts. Besides, the article highlights the crucial role of pragmatic English skills in Moldova’s ISCED 4 vocational education, emphasizing their importance for effective, context-sensitive communication in professional fields like tourism. It also discusses a study carried out to confirm the fact that VET students consider this skill essential for the development of their professional career and ensure their competitiveness on the labour market. Besides, the article outlines key strategies that effectively supported the development of students’ pragmatic English communication skills, specifically aimed at facilitating their entry into careers within the tourism sector. The results of the research confirm that students consider pragmatic English skills important in their professional careers, thereby enhancing their competitiveness in the labour market. Mastering pragmatic communication skills in English reflects a student’s ability, particularly in vocational education, to engage effectively in social interactions and pursue a professional career on a global scale.