ASSESSING THE PERCEIVED SKILLS OF TERTIARY ACCOUNTING STUDENTS BY EMPLOYERS

Abstract

 The purpose of this study is to investigate employers' perceptions of accounting students' skills. The research was carried out using an online survey distributed to employers where accounting students are completing their internship programme. The sample consists of 90 accounting students who participated in the internship programme in various states during the 2022/2023 semester. The survey evaluates skills such as communication, critical thinking, and the ability to work independently. The findings of this study showed that students need to improve their skills in technical knowledge, technical report, and communication in English. The study's findings will have significant implications for higher learning institutions (HLI) and policymakers seeking to improve the alignment of education and the workforce. Through their academic curricula, HLI should provide more opportunities for students to develop soft skills.