Skill Development in Higher Education: Exploring the Role of Teaching, Self-Management, Administrative, Leadership, and Interpersonal Skills in Tamil Nadu Educational Institutions

This study explores the role of skill development in Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) in Tamil Nadu, focusing on key skill sets including teaching skills, self-management skills, administrative skills, leadership skills, and interpersonal skills. It examines the impact of various skill development programs, such as the Naan Mudhalvan Scheme, on students' employability and career readiness. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study employs quantitative techniques like descriptive statistics, factor analysis, and multiple regression analysis, along with qualitative interviews to gather in-depth insights from students, faculty members, and administrators. The findings reveal that teaching skills and self-management skills are the most significant contributors to employability, while administrative and leadership skills also play an important role. The study highlights the need for industry-academic collaborations to better align educational curricula with the demands of the labor market. The research further emphasizes the importance of soft skills training and suggests the integration of self-regulated, market-driven models within HEIs to enhance the overall effectiveness of skill development programs. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and educational leaders aiming to improve the employability of graduates in Tamil Nadu and beyond.