TRIPLE HELIX COLLABORATION: BRIDGING THE GAP ON THE EMPLOYABILITY OF SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES

Abstract: The employability of Beauty Care graduates faces diverse challenges impacting their job market readiness, necessitating effective measures for addressing these issues. This study aimed to bridge employability gaps among Senior High School (SHS) graduates in the Beauty Care industry through the adoption of the Triple Helix Collaboration. Qualitative and quantitative data analysis methods were employed using a mixed-method concurrent embedded approach. A purposive sampling technique was utilized, resulting in a total of 72 participants, including 60 SHS graduates and 12 Triple Helix representatives. Quantitative data were analyzed using mean and Pearson-r, while thematic analysis was applied to the qualitative data. The findings revealed that SHS graduates perceived a high level of competence among the Academe, Government, and Industry Partners in terms of knowledge, skills, and attitude. The study emphasized the positive relationship and collaborative efforts among these helices in developing employability skills, which have the potential to significantly enhance graduates' employability. Notable strengths identified in the Triple Helix Contribution included work immersion programs, employment support, knowledge and skills enhancement, collaborations and partnerships, and initiatives to improve wages and work conditions. However, limitations were noted, such as the limited engagement in quality assurance and remedial actions and the absence of monitoring and evaluation programs due to financial constraints. The study also highlighted influential factors in the Beauty Care industry, with Training and Development Factors identified as the most significant. Addressing these factors, including Employment Factors, Government Support, Curriculum and Design Programs, and Institutional Factors, holds significant importance in improving employability outcomes and aligning graduates with the evolving job market in the Beauty Care industry.

Keywords: Triple Helix, Collaboration. Employability, Gap, Competency