BRIDGING THE SKILL GAP: AN INDUSTRY-ACADEMIA TRAINING FOR CIVIL ENGINEERING STUDENTS IN MALAYSIAN POLYTECHNICS

Abstract

Malaysian Polytechnics, as pivotal Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, are mandated to produce job-ready graduates for the construction industry. However, a significant misalignment persists between the project management (PM) competencies taught in the Diploma of Civil Engineering and the practical skills demanded by industry. This study investigates this gap by identifying critical PM competencies from an industry perspective, analyzing the current polytechnic curriculum, and developing a strategic framework for alignment. A sequential explanatory mixed-methods design was employed, comprising an industry survey (n=127), a qualitative content analysis of PM syllabi from 15 polytechnics, and a gap analysis. Industry results prioritized practical, site-based competencies: Site Supervision & Safety Management (M=4.85), Quality Control & Assurance (M=4.80), and Scheduling Software Proficiency (M=4.72). In contrast, curriculum analysis revealed a predominant theoretical focus, with insufficient coverage of digital tools (e.g., BIM in 7% of syllabi) and localized standards. The gap analysis was statistically significant (p<0.001) for the top industry-ranked competencies. The study confirms a substantial theory-practice divide and proposes the Polytechnic Industry-Integrated Project Management (PII-PM) Framework, a five-pillar model emphasizing contextualized content, digital skills integration, active learning pedagogy, structured industry collaboration, and a continuous feedback mechanism. This framework provides an actionable roadmap for polytechnics to enhance graduate employability and contribute directly to Malaysia's infrastructure goals.