Analysis of Employability Skill Gap in the Unorganised Manufacturing Sector

Abstract

Industrialisation is essential for economic growth. Unorganised manufacturing industries such as handloom, handicraft, and wooden furniture significantly provide employment opportunities. The sector’s development depends on the productivity of workers’ skills. However, skill gaps often arise when workers’ skills do not match the requirements of the industries. To examine this, primary data have been collected from employers and employees in selected industries in Manipur. The primary objective is to analyse the employability skill gap in the unorganised manufacturing sector. The study found the existence of a skill gap in the sector, hindering industrialisation and economic growth. While workers have industry-specific skills, there is a significant lack of common skills such as advertising, digital design, and accountancy. This shortfall negatively impacts the sustainability and growth of the industries. Thus, on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs are essential for industrial workers, particularly in the small and unorganised manufacturing industries. Additionally, improving technical and vocational institutions and integrating them with schools is necessary to enhance students’ technical skills and promote entrepreneurship and self-employment.

Keywords: Skill Gap, Employability, Manufacturing Industries, Handloom, Handicraft, Wooden Furniture, Skill Training

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