Investigating graduate employability strategies of higher education institutions in Lebanon using a systems lens

This article investigates strategies employed by higher education institutions (HEIs) in Lebanon to promote graduate employability. Using a systems lens, it holistically addresses employability as an interconnected ecosystem, adopts a two-phased mixed-methods design, analysing employability strategies in 13 Lebanese universities, and focusing on three STEM programmes. The first phase utilizes student surveys and qualitative interviews with key stakeholder groups including HEIs, employers, professional/non-profit associations, and government representatives. The second phase uses systems tools to identify leverage points within the ecosystem. Findings suggest that the majority of HEIs have not developed holistic employability strategies but have instead introduced piecemeal initiatives, mainly to satisfy external accreditors. Employability was reconceptualised by stakeholders as a shared responsibility . This study highlights the benefits of adopting a systems lens in researching complex topics, enabling dialogue within and across stakeholder groups, strengthening understanding of the constraints faced by each, and facilitating the co-creation of solutions and recommendations.