Preparing university graduates for Industry 5.0 – a conceptual paper through the lens of knowledge management

Purpose The purpose of this conceptual paper is to explore and identify the skill gaps within current graduate attribute frameworks relating to Industry 5.0 and provide recommendations for universities to bridge the gaps. Through the lens of knowledge management, specifically, through the knowledge-in-practice (KIP) framework, this conceptual paper aims to address two key research questions: RQ1: What skill gaps exist in university graduates relating to their Industry 5.0 readiness? And RQ2: How can universities help bridge the gaps and prepare students for Industry 5.0 readiness? Design/methodology/approach This paper adopts a systematic conceptual review approach. This includes searching and evaluating existing literature on the topics of graduate attributes, Industry 5.0 and knowledge management. This approach ensures a comprehensive and rigorous foundation for the theoretical insights and propositions discussed. Findings The current graduate attribute frameworks have built a good foundation for the basic and essential skills graduates need for their careers in the real world. However, skill gaps have been identified, and they are related specifically to the fourth category of the KIP framework, that is, intuitive know-how. Examples include complex problem-solving, resilience, adaptability and creativity. These human skills are critical as they will enable and support graduates to work effectively alongside various technologies and better deal with the evolving business environments. Practical implications The transition from Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0 and human-centric collaboration with machines have been popular topics in the field of technology adoption. The rapid development and adoption of technology in industry posts new challenges and demand on graduates. Updating the existing graduate attribute frameworks and ultimately developing a universal framework would better teach and prepare graduates ready for the evolving workforce. To bridge the gaps, universities need to take both short-term and long-term actions. They need to understand the concept of Industry 5.0 and work closely with industry to provide a future proof curriculum. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this conceptual paper is probably one of the first analysing the skill gaps of university graduates in the context of Industry 5.0 from the knowledge management perspective, specifically, through the lens of the KIP framework. The findings and recommendations will help universities provide better and more appropriate support to graduates for Industry 5.0.