Transitions from Education to Work: Workforce Ready Challenges in the Asia Pacific

Labour markets are becoming more dynamic in response to pressures from globalisation, new technologies and trade agreements, as well as cross-border migration, inter-generation differences, changing education imperatives and employer expectations. By focusing on several Asia Pacific countries, this book explores the differences in their workforces: ageing, or abundant in labour but lacking in skilled employees. One similarity these countries share is the difficulty in attracting and retaining employees with the required skillset and capabilities, and these constraints can stymie national economic growth and long term development.

This book brings together national and international perspectives on employability challenges faced by selected countries in the Asia Pacific region. While the region is forecast to enjoy high growth in the coming decade, a recurring challenge is addressing skill shortages and ensuring effective transition from training colleges and universities into employment. Consequently, the book focuses on the roles of multiple stakeholders, primarily: governments, education providers and employers – in more effectively addressing these key socio-economic challenges.

Roslyn Cameron is Associate Professor and Head of HRM Discipline at the Australian Institute of Business. She is also Co-Convenor of the Mixed Methods Special Interest Group (MMR SIG) of the Australian and New Zealand Academy of Management (ANZAM).

Subas P. Dhakal is Lecturer at Curtin Business School in Curtin University. He is a management academic with expertise in the theory and practice of sustainable development.

John Burgess is Professor of Management at RMIT University, Australia. His research interests include HRM practices of multinational enterprises, the relationship between working time and health, and work in care sectors.