Nitin, Assistant Professor G. Anburaj
Abstract- This research explores the transformation in the value of a university education in the face of rising tuition costs, student debt, and the shifting landscape of the labor market. It responds to pressing challenges advanced by alternative models of education, which have mushroomed with their success in addition to other trends such as online certifications and vocational training and apprenticeships, that are more affordable and practically applicable. Such a study highlights the changes regarding technological advancements in occupations-specially regarding automation and artificial intelligence, as practical skills are valued more than formal education. In addition, this points out that universities are indispensable because apart from vocational training, it adds to critical thinking and intellectual development, and networking as well. In spite of all criticism against traditional higher education, a university still plays a role in the overall development of an individual in possession of knowledge acquired in institutions and with soft skills to make persons successful in the labor market.It finally calls for reevaluation of curricula for universities, which must drenched with experiential learning and keeping in consideration the needs of the labour market today so that graduates remain competitive and relevant in their fields. This analysis adds to the larger conversation over the role that is being assumed by higher education in society and its inability to flex with the evolution that is happening within the workplace.
