Training needs assessment for employability in pharmaceutical industries

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to assess the perception of final year pharma students, faculties from various Pharmacy Council of India/All India Council for Technical Education approved pharmacy colleges and industrial experts toward skill gaps, employability, and job-oriented training programs. METHODS: Cross-sectional survey conducted using validated piloted questionnaire in both educational and industry sector. Mann–Whitney test was used to analyze difference in opinions of industry professionals and academicians. NVIVO 12(trial version) used to analyze qualitative data from open-ended question. RESULTS: Both faculty (65%) and industrial expert (31.5%) surveyed opined that graduates are lack of skills. It was also observed that basic knowledge and technical skills are the gaps that affect graduates’ performance. Most of the students (94%), academicians (92%), and industry professionals (93%) unanimously agreed that there is a strong need of training programs. CONCLUSION: Revival of pharmacy education incorporating training programs is the need of the hour.