International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (IJTSRD)

Volume 9 Issue 4, Jul-Aug 2025 Available Online: www.ijtsrd.com e-ISSN: 2456 – 6470

Employability Skills and Employee Income Level of

Graduates in Selected Universities in South-West, Nigeria
Onu, C. A.; Omojola, O. I.; Magaji, N.
Department of Business Administration and Marketing,
School Management Sciences, Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria

ABSTRACT How to cite this paper: Onu, C. A. |

The income levels of graduates are vital as they indicate how well Omojola, O. I. | Magaji, N.
higher education prepares students for employment and their "Employability Skills and Employee
economic stability. Various initiatives have been introduced to boost Income Level of Graduates in Selected
graduates' income, including enhanced curricula, collaborations with Universities in South-West, Nigeria"
Published in
industries, and training in employability skills. However, these efforts International Journal
have not always produced the expected results, as seen in the recent of Trend in
decline in graduates' income levels. This study investigated the Scientific Research
influence of employability skills on employee income levels in and Development
selected universities in South-West Nigeria. The study utilized a (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-
survey research design, focusing on a population of 64,171 graduates 6470, Volume-9 | IJTSRD97376
from six selected universities in South-West Nigeria. A sample size Issue-4, August
of 497 was determined using the Research Advisor’s sample size 2025, pp.1106-1120, URL:
table, and simple random sampling was employed. Data collection www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd97376.pdf
was carried out using a structured and validated questionnaire, with
Copyright © 2025 by author (s) and
Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficients for the constructs ranging International Journal of Trend in
from 0.73 to 0.84. The response rate was 93.2%. Data analysis Scientific Research and Development
included descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, specifically Journal. This is an
multiple linear and hierarchical regression, at a 5% significance level. Open Access article
The study found that employability skills have significant effect on distributed under the
employee income levels (Adj.R2 = 0.163, F(5, 462) = 18.959, p = terms of the Creative Commons
0.000) in selected universities in South-West Nigeria. The study Attribution License (CC BY 4.0)
concluded that employability skills influenced income of graduates in (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0)
selected universities in South-West Nigeria. Hence, it is
recommended that universities in South-West Nigeria implement KEYWORDS: Adaptability skills,
comprehensive training programs that focus on enhancing Communication skills, Employability
employability skills to improve employee income levels of graduate. skills, Employee income levels,
This could include integrating soft skills training such as Problem-solving skills.
communication, teamwork, and problem-solving into academic
programs to further prepare graduates for the workforce.

INTRODUCTION
The income level of graduates is crucial as it reflects Nigeria, aiming to identify effective strategies that
the effectiveness of higher education in preparing can bridge the gap between education and income.
students for the job market and their subsequent
Globally, the income level of graduates globally is a
economic stability. Various initiatives have been
critical measure of higher education’s effectiveness in
implemented to enhance graduates' income levels,
equipping students with skills for economic
such as improved curricula, partnerships with
participation. Despite increased access to tertiary
industries, and employability skills training.
education, disparities in graduate income persist due
However, these efforts have not consistently yielded
to factors like field of study, institutional reputation,
the desired outcomes, as evidenced by a decline in
and labor market dynamics. For instance, STEM
graduates' income levels in recent years. This
graduates often earn more than those in humanities,
situation underscores the need to investigate the
but economic downturns and automation have
impact of employability skills on the income levels of
suppressed wages in some sectors (International
graduates from selected universities in South-West
Labour Organization, 2021). Efforts to boost

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 International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development @ www.ijtsrd.com eISSN: 2456-6470
employability through skills training and international “Double First-Class” university initiative, aim to
exposure, such as study abroad programs, show produce globally competitive graduates, yet many
moderate wage benefits, yet global income inequality face underemployment in low-wage jobs (Li & Yang,
among graduates remains (Mok & Marginson, 2021). 2021). Technical and vocational training programs
The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these have been introduced to align skills with industry
challenges, with young graduates facing job losses needs, but employer preferences for experience over
and reduced earnings, particularly in developing academic credentials persist (Chen & Wu, 2022).
economies (Schmillen & Umkehrer, 2022). Economic slowdowns and tech sector layoffs since
Addressing these issues requires aligning curricula 2021 have further depressed graduate wages,
with evolving market needs and fostering equitable particularly in urban areas (Zhang et al., 2023).
access to high-demand skills (UNESCO, 2023). Additionally, regional disparities mean rural
In the United States, graduate income levels reflect graduates earn significantly less than their urban
both the prestige of higher education institutions and counterparts (World Bank, 2024). Addressing these
the employability skills acquired. Graduates from challenges requires strengthening industry-academia
elite universities often secure higher-paying jobs, but collaboration and prioritizing practical skills training.
rising tuition costs and student debt burden many, In Nigeria, the income level of graduates is a pressing
delaying economic stability (Baum, 2021). Initiatives concern, reflecting systemic challenges in education
like STEM-focused programs and career services and the labor market. Efforts to improve
have aimed to enhance earnings, yet income employability through curriculum reforms and
disparities persist, particularly for underrepresented entrepreneurship training have been implemented, but
groups (Carnevale et al., 2022). The gig economy and graduate earnings remain low due to high
automation have further depressed wages for non- unemployment and skills gaps (Akanmu & Adebayo,
technical graduates, with data showing stagnant real 2021). Economic instability and reliance on informal
wages for some fields since 2021 (Autor & Dube, employment further depress wages, with many
2023). Moreover, employer demand for practical graduates earning below expectations (National
skills, such as data analysis, often outpaces university Bureau of Statistics, 2022). Studies highlight that
offerings, underscoring a skills mismatch employability skills, such as critical thinking and
(Georgetown University Center on Education and the digital literacy, are often underdeveloped, limiting
Workforce, 2024). These challenges highlight the income potential (Oluwatobi et al., 2023). Moreover,
need for targeted educational reforms to ensure organized crime and economic volatility exacerbate
equitable income outcomes. job scarcity, particularly in South-West Nigeria
In Europe, particularly the United Kingdom, graduate (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, 2024).
income levels vary widely due to regional economic Investigating the impact of employability skills on
differences and educational systems. The UK’s focus income levels is crucial to designing interventions
on employability skills, through initiatives like degree that align education with market demands and foster
apprenticeships and industry partnerships, has aimed economic stability.
to boost graduate earnings, but outcomes remain Employability skills, such as communication skills,
uneven (Hewitt, 2021). Post-Brexit labor market teamwork, problem-solving skills, adaptability skills
shifts and inflation have reduced real wages for many and technical skills are vital for enhancing the income
graduates, especially in non-STEM fields (Office for levels of graduates in Nigeria, as they directly
National Statistics, 2022). European studies indicate influence job readiness and workplace performance.
that graduates with international experience or These skills enable graduates to meet employer
vocational training often earn more, yet social expectations, secure better-paying roles, and
inequalities limit access to such opportunities contribute to organizational growth, particularly in a
(European Commission, 2023). Furthermore, the rise competitive labor market marked by high
of precarious employment contracts has lowered unemployment and economic instability (Akanmu &
income stability for young graduates (McGowan & Adebayo, 2021). Despite their importance,
Andrews, 2024). These trends emphasize the need for employability skills have not received adequate
policies that enhance skill relevance and address attention in Nigerian universities, where curricula
structural barriers to higher earnings. often prioritize theoretical knowledge over practical
In China, the rapid expansion of higher education has competencies, leading to a skills mismatch that
increased graduate numbers, but income levels have depresses graduate earnings (Oluwatobi et al., 2023).
not kept pace due to oversupply and skills Initiatives like entrepreneurship training and industry
mismatches. Government-led reforms, such as the partnerships exist, but their implementation is

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inconsistent, and many graduates remain ill-equipped Literature Review
for modern job demands (National Universities Employability Skills
Commission, 2022). This gap is evident in South- Employability skills are defined as a set of core
West Nigeria, where studies show that graduates with competencies and personal attributes that enable an
stronger employability skills earn significantly more individual to effectively contribute to the workplace,
than those without (Adeyemi & Salami, 2024). The succeed in a job, and advance in their career
lack of focus on these skills, compounded by limited (Soundararajan et al., 2020). These skills typically
funding and outdated teaching methods, undermines include communication, problem-solving, teamwork,
efforts to improve graduate income levels, time management, adaptability, and leadership.
necessitating urgent educational reforms to align Additionally, a strong work ethic, critical thinking,
training with market needs (World Bank, 2025). and the ability to work under pressure are also
Numerous studies have highlighted the critical link essential components (Dewanto & Pritasari, 2023).
between employability skills and income levels According to Bhatti et al. (2022), employability skills
among graduates in Nigeria (Hossain et al., 2022; are crucial for ensuring individuals can meet the
Khotimah & Wiyono, 2022; Mariano & Tantoco, demands of their roles, collaborate effectively with
2023; Saini, 2022; Syed & Choudhury, 2023; others, and demonstrate reliability and initiative in the
Thompson & Soccio, 2022; Wijayanti & Setiawati, workplace. Employability skills are the key abilities
2023). However, in the context of the Nigerian labor and attributes that individuals need to be successful in
market, the impact of inadequate employability skills the workplace. These skills go beyond academic
on income levels has not been sufficiently addressed, qualifications and technical knowledge, focusing on
as a result, a clear research gap has emerged that personal qualities, attitudes, and behaviors that
needs to be explored (Yameogo & Dauda, 2022). The enhance an individual's ability to work effectively in
persistent decline in income levels for graduates can a professional environment (Suarta et al., 2024).
be attributed to a variance between the skills acquired Employability skills provide numerous benefits to
through formal education and the competencies graduates, significantly enhancing their career
demanded by employers (Agu et al., 2023). This prospects and adaptability in the workforce. These
mismatch has resulted in an oversupply of graduates skills, which extend beyond technical knowledge to
who are ill-prepared for the realities of the job include strong communication, problem-solving,
market, leading to widespread underemployment and teamwork, and time-management abilities, are highly
unemployment (Iraoya & Isinika, 2022). As a sought after by employers (McHenry & Krishnan,
consequence, many graduates find themselves in low- 2022; Karimah & Kriswanto, 2023). Graduates with
paying jobs, which significantly affects their quality well-developed employability skills stand out in a
of life and economic stability. The decline in income competitive job market, increasing their chances of
levels has broader implications for the Nigerian securing desirable positions. Additionally, these skills
economy as well; it stifles consumer spending, contribute to job stability and growth, as graduates
reduces savings rates, and limits the overall economic who demonstrate consistent performance and
growth potential (Haruna & Alhassan, 2022). effective collaboration are more likely to retain their
Furthermore, the erosion of financial security among jobs and advance in their careers (Othman et al.,
graduates has led to an increase in social discontent 2022). In a rapidly changing work environment,
and a decline in overall morale, as young people adaptability is crucial, allowing graduates to take on
struggle to find meaningful employment that aligns diverse responsibilities and navigate new challenges
with their qualifications (Ogbeide-Osaretin et al., (Dhaliwal & Misra, 2020). Furthermore, possessing
2022). This trend not only hampers individual strong employability skills fosters greater job
aspirations but also contributes to a stagnating satisfaction, as graduates feel more competent and
economy, as the youth, who are vital drivers of confident in managing workplace tasks and
innovation and productivity, become disenchanted relationships (Arsenis et al., 2022). Ultimately, these
and disengaged (Odoyi & Riekkinen, 2022). skills not only enhance individual career trajectories
Ultimately, the interplay between declining income but also support long-term success and fulfillment,
levels and employability skills poses a significant benefiting both graduates and their employers
challenge for Nigeria, as it undermines the country's (Briones et al., 2021).
ability to harness the potential of its youth, sustain
Communication Skills
economic development, and maintain competitiveness
Communication skills are defined as the ability to
in a rapidly changing global landscape (Gambo et al.,
convey information, ideas, or emotions effectively
2022; Okunuga, 2022).
and efficiently through verbal, non-verbal, and

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written methods (Nantha et al., 2022). These skills enhancing their ability to tackle challenges in both
involve not only speaking and writing clearly but also personal and professional settings. One major benefit
listening actively, understanding messages, and is increased adaptability; graduates with strong
responding appropriately. Liu et al. (2024) postulated problem-solving skills can quickly assess unexpected
that good communication skills include the ability to obstacles, identify key issues, and develop effective
adapt one's message to the audience, use appropriate solutions without feeling overwhelmed (Gunawan et
tone and body language, and ensure clarity in the al., 2020). This adaptability is especially important in
message being delivered. According to Amalina and fast-paced environments, where innovation and the
Vidákovich (2023), in both personal and professional capacity to adjust to new circumstances are crucial for
settings, effective communication fosters stronger success (Faulkner et al., 2023). Furthermore,
relationships, enhances collaboration, and minimizes problem-solving skills foster creativity, encouraging
misunderstandings. Communication skills are graduates to explore different approaches to
invaluable for graduates, significantly enhancing their challenges and devise unique solutions that others
personal and professional interactions. These skills might overlook (Afacan & Kaya, 2022). This creative
foster understanding, collaboration, and conflict problem-solving not only aids in resolving immediate
resolution, which are essential in both workplace and issues but also promotes continuous improvement and
social settings (Karsaev, 2020). Graduates with strong forward-thinking, equipping graduates for long-term
communication abilities can effectively express their success in their careers.
thoughts and emotions, facilitating relationship-
Teamwork Skills
building and teamwork (Schär et al., 2022). In
Ma and Leman (2023) stated that teamwork skills are
leadership roles, clear communication is crucial for
defined as the abilities that enable individuals to
guiding teams and aligning them with organizational
effectively collaborate with others in a group setting
goals (Jucha et al., 2020). Additionally, strong
to achieve common goals. These skills involve
communication skills promote active listening, which
communication, active listening, problem-solving,
enhances empathy and creates a supportive
conflict resolution, and the ability to contribute to and
environment that boosts morale and productivity.
support group efforts (Normandin et al., 2023).
Effective communicators are also more persuasive,
Similarly, Park et al. (2022) submitted that teamwork
allowing them to present compelling arguments and
requires individuals to respect diverse perspectives,
make efficient decisions (Prokofiev et al., 2021).
work towards a shared objective, and adapt to various
Furthermore, in the digital age, communication skills
roles within the team. In opinion of Guaman-
extend to written communication, presentations, and
Quintanilla et al. (2022), effective teamwork
virtual meetings, making them essential for
promotes cooperation, enhances productivity, and
maintaining professional relationships (Nasaruddin et
fosters a positive and inclusive environment, making
al., 2023). By articulating ideas clearly and
it a key asset in both personal and professional
respectfully, graduates can ensure that their
settings. Teamwork skills provide significant benefits
interactions are both productive and positive,
to graduates, enhancing their ability to succeed in
ultimately fostering personal growth and overall
both personal and professional environments. One
effectiveness in the workplace (Suh, 2022; Tang et
key advantage is the ability to combine diverse skills,
al., 2021).
perspectives, and expertise, which fosters more
Problem-Solving Skills creative and effective solutions to problems (Beiboer
According to Haenilah et al. (2021), problem-solving et al., 2023). When graduates collaborate, they
skills are defined as the ability to identify, analyze, leverage their unique strengths, leading to better
and find solutions to complex or challenging decision-making as team members challenge each
situations. These skills involve critical thinking, other’s assumptions and contribute fresh ideas,
creativity, resourcefulness, and the ability to break resulting in well-rounded outcomes (Kauppila et al.,
down problems into manageable steps. Akben (2020) 2023). Additionally, teamwork instills a sense of
corroborated Haenilah et al. (2021) by indicating that accountability, as each member plays a crucial role in
effective problem solvers are able to evaluate various the group's success. This shared responsibility often
options, anticipate potential outcomes, and make boosts motivation and strengthens work ethic, as
decisions that best address the problem at hand. In individuals strive to meet the expectations of their
addition to analytical thinking, problem-solving often teammates (Parnikh et al., 2022). Ultimately, strong
requires collaboration, communication, and teamwork skills equip graduates to navigate complex
adaptability to navigate unforeseen obstacles and challenges and drive collective success in their
changing conditions (Çalişkan, 2020). Problem- careers.
solving skills are vital for graduates, significantly

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Adaptability Skills in higher quality outputs (Duncan et al., 2024).
Adaptability skills are defined as the ability to adjust Ultimately, strong technical skills equip graduates to
to new conditions, challenges, or environments with excel in their careers and meet the demands of the
ease and flexibility (Makmee, 2023). These skills modern workforce.
involve being open to change, learning from
Employee Income Levels
experiences, and quickly shifting strategies when
According to Prastyatini et al. (2023) income levels
necessary. Malik et al. (2023) established that
are typically defined as the different ranges of
individuals with strong adaptability skills can thrive
earnings that individuals or households fall into base
in dynamic and uncertain situations, demonstrating
on their income. In addition, Song et al. 2023) stated
resilience, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.
that these levels often include categories such as low
Adaptability skills are essential for graduates,
income, middle income, and high income, with
providing significant advantages in an ever-changing
specific income thresholds used to distinguish
world. One major benefit is the ability to handle
between them. The classification can vary by country
uncertainty and change with resilience, enabling
or region, reflecting the local cost of living and
graduates to remain calm, focused, and effective
economic conditions. For example, in many
when confronted with new challenges (Bonney et al.,
countries, low-income earners may have earnings
2022; Yun & Lee, 2023). This flexibility is
below a certain percentage of the median income,
particularly valuable in the workforce, where
while middle-income earners are those whose income
industries, technologies, and market conditions
is within a certain range around the median, and high-
frequently shift (Supriatna et al., 2023). Graduates
income earners are those who significantly exceed the
who can adapt to new tools, processes, or roles are
median (McGee & Benk, 2023; Zhang et al., 2024).
more likely to thrive and contribute positively to their
Qian et al. (2022) opined that these income levels
teams and organizations. Moreover, adaptability
help to understand economic disparities and guide
fosters creativity and problem-solving by exposing
policies related to social welfare, taxation, and
individuals to new perspectives and approaches,
redistribution.
leading to innovative solutions and valuable learning
experiences (Sulistiyo, 2023). Ultimately, strong Employee income levels provide significant benefits
adaptability skills equip graduates to navigate to graduates, enhancing their quality of life and career
complexities and succeed in their careers. opportunities (Chiebonam et al., 2023). Higher
income levels offer financial security, enabling
Technical Skills
graduates to afford essential necessities like housing,
Technical skills are defined as the specific knowledge
healthcare, and education (Gyadu-Asiedu et al.,
and abilities required to perform particular tasks or
2023). With increased disposable income, they can
use certain tools and technologies effectively (Hakim
invest in personal growth through further education or
et al., 2023). These skills encompass a wide range of
skill development, which improves their long-term
areas, including computer programming, data
financial prospects. Additionally, graduates with
analysis, engineering, graphic design, and the
higher earnings typically experience less financial
operation of machinery or software applications.
stress, contributing to better mental health and overall
Technical skills are increasingly essential for
well-being (Karyanti & Nafiah, 2022). On a broader
graduates, offering numerous advantages in today’s
scale, higher employee income levels stimulate
digital and fast-paced world. One primary benefit is
economic growth, as graduates are more likely to
enhanced employability; graduates with specific
spend on goods and services, fostering job creation.
technical skills are often more attractive to employers,
Furthermore, wealthier graduates contribute more in
as they can contribute to projects and initiatives from
taxes, which supports public infrastructure and social
day one without requiring extensive training (Zaika et
services that benefit society (Lee et al., 2022).
al., 2023). Additionally, these skills enable graduates
Addressing income inequality is crucial to ensure that
to adapt to new technologies and methodologies,
all graduates have equitable access to opportunities,
fostering a culture of continuous learning and
promoting social stability and a more inclusive
innovation (Adula et al., 2023). For instance, in fields
economic environment (Athari et al., 2023).
like information technology, proficiency in
programming languages, data analysis, or Theoretical Framework
cybersecurity can lead to greater job security and Skill Acquisition Theory provides a valuable
opportunities for advancement. Moreover, technical framework for understanding how graduates develop
skills promote efficiency and productivity, as employability skills over time, particularly in the
graduates adept at using software tools or machinery context of learning environments such as universities.
can streamline processes and reduce errors, resulting Advanced by Robert DeKeyser, this theory outlines

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three stages of skill acquisition: the cognitive stage, financial outcomes, ultimately contributing to a more
where learners grasp basic components with skilled workforce in the region.
guidance; the associative stage, where they refine
Furthermore, the relevance of Skill Acquisition
techniques and reduce errors; and the autonomous
Theory lies in its structured approach to
stage, where skills become automatic (Button et al.,
understanding skill development. As graduates
2021; Undiyaundeye & Otu, 2022). This progression
progress through the cognitive, associative, and
is crucial for graduates as they prepare to enter the
autonomous stages, they enhance their employability
workforce, where the ability to demonstrate
skills, which are critical for meeting the demands of
employability skills can significantly impact their
the job market. This theory helps identify how
income levels. As graduates advance through these
effectively graduates acquire skills that directly
stages, their performance improves, allowing them to
influence their job readiness and potential income. By
handle more complex tasks and better meet employer
examining this relationship, researchers can gain
expectations (Tang, 2020). Studying the relevance of
insights into the effectiveness of educational
Skill Acquisition Theory in the context of
programs and interventions aimed at improving
employability skills and employee income levels
graduates' employability, ultimately contributing to
among graduates in selected universities in South-
better employment outcomes and economic stability
West Nigeria provides insights into how effective
in the region.
skill development influences job prospects and
Conceptual Model

Figure: Conceptual Model for Employability Skills and Employee Income Level
Source: Researchers’ Conceptualization (2025)
Methodology
The study adopted survey research design. The population of this study comprised 64,171 graduates of six
selected universities in South-West Nigeria. Sample size of 497 was determined using the Research Advisor’s
sample size table. The study adopted simple random sampling technique. A structured and validated
questionnaire was used for data collection. The Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficients for the constructs ranged
from 0.73 to 0.84. A response rate of 93.2% was recorded. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential
(multiple linear and hierarchical regression) statistics at 5% level of significance.
Model Specification
Y = Dependent Variable
X = Independent Variable
Y = Employee Income Level (EIL)
X = Employability Skills (ES)
Where
X = (x1, x2, x3, x4, x5)
x1= Communication Skills (CS)
x2= Problem Solving Skills (PSS)
x3= Teamwork Skills (TS)
x4= Adaptability Skills (AS)
x5= Technical Skills (TS)
And
Y = Employee Income Levels (EIL)

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Regression Model
The models formulated for each of the hypotheses are written as:
EIL = β0 + β1CS+ β2PSS+ β3TS+ β4AS + β5TS +εi --------------------------------- Equ. I
Results and Discussion
The data analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software, version
27.0, with a significance threshold set at 5% for all statistical tests to align with the study’s objectives. A total
number of 497 copies of questionnaire were administered to graduates in selected Universities in South-West,
Nigeria. A total of four hundred and sixty-three (463) which represented 100% of the total copies of the
questionnaire administered were returned and found usable for the analysis.
Restatement of Research Hypothesis
H0: Employability skills have no significant effect on employee income levels in selected Universities in South-
West, Nigeria.
Table 1: Summary of Multiple Regression Analysis for Hypothesis Three
ANOVA Adjusted
N Model Β T Sig. R F (5, 462)
(Sig.) R2
(Constant) 10.422 5.448 0.000
Communication Skills -0.014 -0.231 0.818
Problem Solving Skills 0.239 3.355 0.001
0.001b 0.414a 0.163 18.959
Teamwork Skills 0.079 1.100 0.272
Adaptability Skills -0.054 -0.731 0.465
463
Technical Skills 0.335 5.873 0.000
a. Dependent Variable: Employee Income Levels
b. Predictors: (Constant), Technical Skills, Communication Skills, Teamwork Skills, Problem
Solving Skills, Adaptability Skills
Source: Researcher’s Field Survey, 2025
Interpretation skills and problem-solving skills significantly
The results of the multiple regression analysis contribute to higher income levels, communication,
presented in Table 1 were used to test the hypothesis, teamwork, and adaptability skills do not show
which posits that employability skills have no statistically significant effects. These results suggest
significant effect on employee income levels. The that certain employability skills, particularly technical
analysis reveals that technical skills (β = 0.335, t = and problem-solving competencies are key
5.873, p < 0.05) and problem-solving skills (β = determinants of employee earnings. The predictive
0.239, t = 3.355, p < 0.05) demonstrate a strong and prescriptive multiple regression models are thus
positive and statistically significant relationship with expressed:
employee income levels. These results indicate that EIL = 10.422 + -0.014CS + 0.239PSS + 0.079TS + -
employees with greater technical competencies and 0.054AS + 0.335TSS+ Ui------Eqn i (Predictive
problem-solving abilities tend to command higher Model)
incomes. However, communication skills (β = -0.014,
t = -0.231, p > 0.05), teamwork skills (β = 0.079, t = EIL = 10.422 + 0.239PSS + 0.335TSS + Ui ----Eqn i
1.100, p > 0.05), and adaptability skills (β = -0.054, t (Prescriptive Model)
= -0.731, p > 0.05) show no statistically significant Where:
effect on income levels in this analysis. EIL = Employee Income Level
The model explains a moderate proportion of CS = Communication Skills
variance in income levels, as evidenced by the R PSS = Problem Solving Skills
value of 0.414. The adjusted R² of 0.163 indicates TS = Teamwork Skills
that approximately 16.3% of the variation in AS = Adaptability Skills
employee income can be attributed to the TSS = Technical Skills
combination of these employability skills, while the The regression model indicates that when all
remaining 83.7% is influenced by other factors not employability skills are held constant at zero, the
captured in this model. The ANOVA results (F = baseline employee income level would be 10.422,
18.959, p < 0.05) confirm that the overall regression reflecting a positive starting value. Among the five
model is statistically significant. While technical employability skills examined, problem-solving skills

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(β = 0.239, p = 0.001) and technical skills (β = 0.335, This alignment extends to the role of practical and
p = 0.000) demonstrate statistically significant emotional skill development in boosting income
positive effects on income levels. This suggests that a potential. Lindqvist et al. (2024) demonstrated that
one-unit improvement in problem-solving skills mentorship in vocational education enhances
corresponds to a 0.239-unit increase in income, while emotional resilience and problem-solving skills,
a similar improvement in technical skills leads to a preparing students for workplace success and higher
stronger 0.335-unit increase in income. Conversely, earnings through emotionally supportive training. Liu
communication skills (β = -0.014, p = 0.818) and et al. (2024) found that design thinking in pre-service
adaptability skills (β = -0.054, p = 0.465) show teacher training fosters creativity, problem-solving,
negative but statistically insignificant relationships and motivation skills highly valued in the job market
with income levels, indicating they may not directly and linked to better income levels. Lloyd et al. (2023)
influence earnings. Teamwork skills (β = 0.079, p = added that work-integrated learning placements in
0.272) exhibit a positive but non-significant health service management significantly improve
association, suggesting that while teamwork may problem-solving, communication, and leadership
contribute to workplace dynamics, it does not skills, equipping graduates for well-compensated
significantly impact income in this model. The overall roles. These findings underscore that employability
model is statistically significant, as shown by the F- skills, honed through real-world experience and
statistic (5, 462) = 18.959 (p = 0.000), confirming that emotional support, translate into tangible income
employability skills collectively influence income benefits, reinforcing the study’s conclusions.
levels. While problem-solving and technical skills The growing importance of digital and technical skills
show strong positive effects, communication, further corroborates the study’s findings. Ma and
adaptability, and teamwork skills do not significantly Leman (2023) showed that virtual teamwork skills
influence income. These findings highlight that prepare students for success in team-based
technical proficiency and problem-solving ability are professional environments, where such competencies
key drivers of higher earnings, suggesting that often command higher salaries. Ma et al. (2022)
workforce development programs should prioritize found that virtual reality enhances technical skills
these skills to enhance income potential. The null among science and engineering students, suggesting
hypothesis (H0) stating that employability skills have that innovative learning methods boost employability
no significant effect on employee income levels was and income in technical fields. Männasoo et al.
rejected. (2023) emphasized that digital capacity significantly
Discussion of Findings improves employment outcomes post-COVID-19,
The study found that employability skills have with digitally skilled individuals earning more due to
significant effect on employee income level. The market demand. Suarta et al. (2024) echoed this in the
study’s finding that employability skills significantly accounting sector, noting that digital technology skills
affect employee income level aligns closely with a are increasingly prized by employers, linking
robust body of research demonstrating the economic technical proficiency to higher income levels. These
value of such skills across diverse contexts. Leung et studies collectively highlight that technical
al. (2022) found that career adaptability, a key employability skills are a key determinant of income,
employability skill, significantly enhances students’ aligning with the study’s results.
preparedness for future careers, suggesting that Soft skills and workplace well-being also play a
adaptable individuals are better positioned to secure pivotal role in this narrative. Mahanal et al. (2022)
higher-paying roles in a dynamic job market. found that problem-solving skills, enhanced through
Similarly, Lidyasari et al. (2022) revealed that RICOSRE, improve college students’ employability,
cognitive, affective, and psychomotor skills in positioning them for higher-paying roles requiring
primary school learners from suburban areas bolster complex problem-solving. Malokani et al. (2023)
employability, laying a foundation for future income revealed that career development initiatives
potential through early skill development. Supriatna enhancing employability skills improve retention,
et al. (2023) further supported this by showing that suggesting that skilled employees are retained in
transferable skills like problem-solving, higher-value positions. Steffgen et al. (2020) linked
communication, and teamwork enhance career employability skills like problem-solving and
adaptability, directly linking these competencies to communication to job satisfaction and well-being,
improved employability and, consequently, income which often correlate with better-paying, stable roles.
prospects. These studies collectively affirm that Sudin and Budiarto (2021) further noted that
employability skills are critical drivers of economic meaningful work, tied to employability skills,
outcomes, resonating with the study’s core finding.

@ IJTSRD | Unique Paper ID – IJTSRD97376 | Volume – 9 | Issue – 4 | Jul-Aug 2025 Page 1113
 International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development @ www.ijtsrd.com eISSN: 2456-6470
enhances job satisfaction and career outcomes, more likely to secure better job opportunities and
implying that skilled employees command higher higher salaries, it highlights the need for educational
income through improved performance and retention. institutions to prioritize skill development as part of
These findings reinforce the study’s assertion that their curricula. By fostering a robust skill set,
employability skills significantly elevate income universities can enhance their graduates' prospects,
levels across various dimensions. contributing to individual economic growth and
The consistency across these studies underscores the overall community development.
multifaceted impact of employability skills on In light of these findings, it is recommended that
income. Suh (2022) highlighted communication skills universities in South-West Nigeria implement
as vital in the digital age, a trait linked to higher comprehensive training programs that focus on
earnings in nonprofit and for-profit sectors alike. enhancing employability skills. This could include
Makmee (2023) emphasized the need for a blend of workshops, internships, and partnerships with
technical and soft skills in Thailand’s industrial industries to provide practical experiences that align
zones, where such competencies lead to better-paying with market demands. Additionally, integrating soft
jobs. Malik et al. (2023) found that adaptability and skills training such as communication, teamwork, and
problem-solving in online entrepreneurship education problem-solving into academic programs will further
predict success in digital workforces, often tied to prepare graduates for the workforce. By prioritizing
lucrative opportunities. Sousa et al. (2022) added that these initiatives, universities can significantly
adaptability, supported by rest and recovery, enhances improve the employability of their graduates,
relearning capacity, a skillset that employers reward ultimately leading to enhanced income levels and a
with higher pay. Together, these studies align with the more skilled labor force in the region.
primary finding, illustrating that employability skills
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