Employability-related curriculum gaps among graduates in Sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic literature review

Drawing on evidence from 21 empirical studies, this systematic review examines the curriculum-related factors influencing graduate employability in sub-Saharan Africa. Using ATLAS.ti to support coding and thematic analysis, the review identifies several interconnected curriculum gaps that constrain graduates’ successful transition into the labour market.

The findings reveal that many graduates lack practical experience, work readiness, and access to effective career guidance. These curriculum deficiencies contribute to a persistent mismatch between higher education outcomes and labour market requirements, leaving many graduates inadequately prepared for employment contributing to unemployment and underemployment in the settings represented in the reviewed studies. The review also highlights notable curriculum gaps, such as an overemphasis on theory, limited chances for work-based and experiential learning, and weak partnerships between higher education institutions and industry.