From awareness to practice: Industry insights into graduate competencies for digitalization and sustainability in Ghana

This study explores the digital competencies and knowledge in digital and sustainability concepts among university graduate employees from the perspective of the Ghanaian industry. It used in-depth interviews of chief executive officers and managers from 10 local industries. The data was analysed via thematic analysis. The results from the perspective of the respondents indicates that employers acknowledge graduates are generally aware of the concepts of green and digital transitions, largely due to widespread public discussions. The findings also indicate that most graduate employees were hired with only basic digital skills but were ready to learn software and digital tools relevant to their jobs. In addition, the findings indicate there is a gap between graduates’ awareness and practical application of green skills in the workplace. While awareness is growing, practical implementation is still fragmented. Thus, they suggest the need for higher education institutions (HEIs) to train graduates who are not just aware of sustainability concepts, but who should also be able to apply them meaningfully across various industries. For success in the green transition, stronger strategic planning, faculty development, curriculum integration, student engagement is required of HEIs to align students with future labour market demands and to transform sustainability from concept to practice across the academic system.