Young people today, both globally and in Portugal, are more qualified than ever. According to data from UNESCO, in the last two decades the number of university students has more than doubled worldwide, creating generations that are more prepared and open to the world. Even so, the transition from the academic path to the job market continues to be a challenge, at a time when, in Portugal, more than 20% of young people are overqualified, that is, they have levels of education that are higher than the requirements of the role they perform.
Given this reality, it is important to reflect on what still needs to be done to ensure that the talent that is trained in the country finds opportunities to grow here too. In fact, if traditional academic training no longer seems to be enough to guarantee professional success, what will be the solution?
Currently, one of the main challenges for young people is effectively connecting education to the real needs of the job market. Many students reach the end of their academic career with strong theoretical knowledge, but little exposure to real professional contexts. This gap often translates into insecurity when entering the job market and a slower adaptation to the dynamics of companies.
Faced with this challenge, strengthening bridges between universities and companies is more crucial than ever. Internship programs or projects developed in partnership with companies, for example, are excellent strategies to bring students closer to the reality of work. More than preparing them, in theory, for a specific area, the objective should be to develop relevant and practical skills that help them navigate an increasingly dynamic market.
In addition to the technical domain, in an era in which Artificial Intelligence (AI) begins to take over routine tasks and contact between professionals of different profiles, ages and locations is increasingly recurrent, human skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, communication and adaptability are crucial to professional success. In fact, today it is no longer enough to technically master an area; It is the human side that effectively distinguishes the best professionals.
But developing skills and getting to know leading companies and professionals also depends on a proactive stance on the part of young people in building their career path. Attending events in the sector of interest, participating in webinars, participating in workshops or conferences and seeking networking opportunities are valuable ways to complement your academic training. These moments allow you not only to follow trends and develop new skills, but also to establish relevant contacts, understand market dynamics and open doors to future professional opportunities.
Entering the job market depends on a collective effort involving companies, associations, governments and society in general. Creating practical learning opportunities, promoting contact between students and professionals and valuing young talent are fundamental steps to ensuring that this generation builds a solid and successful path.
Portugal today has a generation of students with enormous potential. The challenge involves ensuring that the path between education and employability becomes clearer, more accessible and more aligned with the needs of an ever-changing world. If we can strengthen this connection, we will not only be supporting the success of young people, but also building a more sustainable and innovative future for the country.
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