A recent Keidanren (Japanese Business Federation) survey has revealed the graduate skills that are in high demand from Japanese companies in 2018.

The survey, which was completed by 443 companies from a variety of industries, was conducted with the aim of collating recommendations from industry for the future shape of higher education in Japan. 

As part of the survey participating companies were asked to specify the qualities/skills they look for in graduates.  The top three responses for both sciences and humanities graduates were ‘independence/initiative’, the ‘ability to deliver/make it happen’, and ‘problem-solving skills’.  ‘Creativity’ was ranked fourth for sciences graduates and seventh for humanities graduates. ‘Teamwork skills’, ‘the capacity to think logically’, ‘communication skills’ and ‘cross cultural understanding’ were also ranked highly for sciences and humanities graduates alike.  Meanwhile, ‘Foreign language ability’ was cited as a key skill, particularly for humanities graduates.

The survey also asked companies to identify priority areas for higher education reform.  The top response was ‘initiatives to foster leaders who have the ability to innovate’.  ‘The promotion of study abroad opportunities (through short and long-term exchange programmes at partner universities) and the expansion of scholarship opportunities for overseas study’ were also highlighted as a priority by the participating companies.

Analysis

The survey shows there is strong demand from industry in Japan for graduates who can think creatively and innovatively, and who have the ability to identify and solve problems through their own initiative. There is also a clear need for graduates who are able to understand difference and can communicate effectively with people from across the world.

Rapid technological advancement through The Internet of Things, big data and AI is helping to spur the demand for graduates with these skills, as is the pressing need for Japanese companies to expand their operations beyond Japan amid a shrinking domestic market.  In the years to come the demand for these skills will only grow as Japanese companies look to raise their global competitiveness by securing a diverse and talented workforce that can prosper in a rapidly changing environment.

UK institutions engaging with Japan are encouraged to take note of these in-demand skills and to demonstrate through tailored marketing messages and face-to-face engagement with prospective students how, by studying at your institution, students can acquire the skills and experience so valued by Japanese companies.  

Keidanren is an influential organisation in Japan and the survey results are anticipated to provide a boost for the study abroad market as universities and government respond to Keidanren’s calls for graduates with the requisite global skills and the expansion of study abroad opportunities/scholarships.