Higher Education Expansion and Graduate Employability: Policy Impacts and Institutional Responses in Comparative Perspective

ABSTRACT The rapid global expansion of higher education has led to a significant increase in the number of graduates entering the job market, creating major challenges in graduate employability. These challenges are largely driven by mismatches between academic training and labour market requirements, limited collaboration between academia and industry, and insufficient implementation of quality management systems and accreditation frameworks in some institutions. This study investigates the impact of higher education expansion on graduate employability using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). It evaluates key factors such as curriculum alignment, Quality Management Systems (QMS), policy frameworks and industry collaboration. The study also considers the role of accessible e‐learning frameworks in supporting inclusive education. The findings indicate that the implementation of QMS significantly improves employment outcomes ( β = 0.52, p < 0.05). Additionally, industry collaboration plays a mediating role in enhancing employability ( β = 0.45, p < 0.01). A supportive policy environment further strengthens these relationships, particularly in regions with well‐established regulatory systems. The study concludes that strengthening institutional quality practices, improving curriculum alignment with industry needs and fostering academia–industry collaboration are essential to bridging the gap between education and employment. Furthermore, inclusive and accessible e‐learning systems contribute to equitable employability outcomes for all graduates.