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How COVID-19 pandemic has impacted graduates: Dr (HC) Guruvayurappan PV, Omega Healthcare Management Services

Dr (HC) Guruvayurappan PV, chief human resources officer, Omega Healthcare Management Services talks about how the pandemic has impacted fresh graduates

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Supriya Rai
New Update
Delhi Schools

The pandemic has essentially changed the way of living and working for most of us throughout the world. Remote working and studying have become the new normal in order to prevent the spread of the disease. However, this change may not necessarily be favourable for fresh graduates who had to pass their examinations and obtain degrees through the online mode. In an interview with Dataquest, Dr (HC) Guruvayurappan PV, chief human resources officer, Omega Healthcare Management Services talks about how the pandemic may have impacted fresh graduates.

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DQ: What are the challenges being faced by youth in getting employed since it’s the first batch that has graduated online?

Dr (HC) Guruvayurappan PV: The coronavirus pandemic has profoundly altered the business ecosystem. We have witnessed a significant rise in the adoption of technology across all verticals thanks to the remote work culture. A study by McKinsey indicates that companies acted 20 to 25 times faster with their digitization process than they would have in normal circumstances. The graduating batch will be challenged in adapting to these changes when they join the workforce. The other aspects missing in the online mode of learning are the lack of peer learning and networking, which are vital in the holistic development of a candidate.

DQ: What can youth do to ensure they become employable?

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Dr (HC) Guruvayurappan PV: Conducting a SWOT analysis to determine their personal Strengths and Weaknesses, as well as current Opportunities and Threats, will help the youth. They need to prioritize strengthening their CV through online courses in new-age tech, MS Office and Digital Marketing. It is critical for them to enhance their digital abilities and thus demonstrate their adaptability to progress in tandem with changing situations. Remote working, problem-solving, continuous learning, being part of a team, and owning responsibilities are some skills the youth need to hone - skills that are sought after presently by recruiters. All these will demonstrate their corporate readiness.

DQ: What are the changes that need to be introduced in the curriculum keeping the pandemic in mind?

Dr (HC) Guruvayurappan PV: The education sector has undergone significant transformations, with the rise of e-learning, leveraging technology and digital platforms to deliver instructions. While overhauling the entire curriculum can’t happen overnight, stakeholders must focus on a few aspects to ensure the youth is industry-ready and equipped with relevant skills. Soft skills are critical to workplace success, especially in the remote work culture. Initiatives must be taken to enhance these skills that are in demand, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving and critical thinking. For people joining the workforce, digital literacy is an extreme necessity. Introduction to new-age technologies which are dominating the entire ecosystem of business will make them more future-ready.

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