Analysis of the Gap Between Higher Education and Industry 4.0 Job Market

Zarnishan Abdulzada

Master's thesis

Abstract:

The fourth industrial revolution refers a significant transformation in human history, characterized by noticeable shift in how we manage our lives, professions, and interactions. It represents a new era led by innovative advancements in technology mirroring the influence of the first three industrial revolutions. As traditional roles evolve or disappear, adapting to new technologies and workflows becomes critical for graduates. Characterized by emergence of new technologies including cyber-physical systems, automation, cloud computing, cybersecurity, augmented reality, additive manufacturing, simulation, big data, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, Industry 4.0 has completely changed the market demand for jobs currently, with new skills and competencies required for graduates entering this more digitalized and automated workforce. This thesis studies the correspondence between higher education curriculums and the specific requirements of the job market of Industry 4.0 in the Czech Republic. Comparing curriculum analysis with market data analysis mixed methods approach is used to identify the industry trends and the universities’ dedication to prepare competent graduates to compete in the market. It aims to assess the extent to which universities are preparing graduates with the skills and knowledge demanded by employers, identify collaboration practices between academic institutions and industry partners, and highlight any gaps in competency between graduate capabilities and job market expectations. The study is concluded with suggested recommendations to address these gaps and ensure that graduates are equipped with necessary skills.

Abstract:

The fourth industrial revolution refers a significant transformation in human history, characterized by noticeable shift in how we manage our lives, professions, and interactions. It represents a new era led by innovative advancements in technology mirroring the influence of the first three industrial revolutions. As traditional roles evolve or disappear, adapting to new technologies and workflows becomes critical for graduates. Characterized by emergence of new technologies including cyber-physical systems, automation, cloud computing, cybersecurity, augmented reality, additive manufacturing, simulation, big data, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, Industry 4.0 has completely changed the market demand for jobs currently, with new skills and competencies required for graduates entering this more digitalized and automated workforce. This thesis studies the correspondence between higher education curriculums and the specific requirements of the job market of Industry 4.0 in the Czech Republic. Comparing curriculum analysis with market data analysis mixed methods approach is used to identify the industry trends and the universities’ dedication to prepare competent graduates to compete in the market. It aims to assess the extent to which universities are preparing graduates with the skills and knowledge demanded by employers, identify collaboration practices between academic institutions and industry partners, and highlight any gaps in competency between graduate capabilities and job market expectations. The study is concluded with suggested recommendations to address these gaps and ensure that graduates are equipped with necessary skills.

Keywords

Skill gap, Job market, Industry 4.0, Education

Keywords

Skill gap, Education, Industry 4.0, Job market

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 5. 5. 2025

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 9. 6. 2025
• Supervisor: Majid Ziaei Nafchi
• Reader: Antonín Pavlíček

Vysoká škola ekonomická v Praze

Master programme / field:
Information Systems Management / Management of Business Informatics