BRIDGING THE GAP: ALIGNING SOFT SKILLS WITH INDUSTRY DEMANDS FOR ENHANCED EMPLOYABILITY: CHALLENGES AND INSIGHTS FROM TRAINING PROFESSIONALS IN ENGINEERING COLLEGES OF ERNAKULAM, KERALA

Abstract

The engineering profession is increasingly challenged with the need for soft skills m, which are critical for effective communication, teamwork, and flexibility in a fast-changing technologies environment . This research article, based on secondary research, analyses the congruence between industry expectations of soft skills and training offered to engineering students in Ernakulum, Kerala. Based on critical review of literature, industry reports, and scholarly studies, this article formulates key themes on enhancing soft skills and offers recommendations for improving educational practice. With a focus on engineering colleges in Ernakulum, Kerala, this research aims to explore the congruence between soft skills training in engineering colleges and industry expectations. In -depth interviews were carried out with twenty soft skills trainers using purposive sampling to determine notable employability skills, present training challenges, and area of improvement. Comparison of case studies across institutions showed differences in training effectiveness,, while secondary research touched on industrial requirements. Key themes that emerged through thematic analysis were communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. The findings emphasize the need for regular, insightful into recommendation for improving training practices to better address industry needs.