Save the Children Thailand has launched the findings of its Rapid Labour Market Assessment under the Youth Skills for Employment Success Project and signed Memorandums of Understanding with six leading vocational institutions. The partnership aims to strengthen skills development and expand employment opportunities for vocational students, helping young people move confidently from the classroom into the workplace and access decent work. 

The study surveyed more than 1,100 vocational students, 45 employers, and representatives from government agencies, educational institutions, and the private sector. The findings show that while employers continue to seek large numbers of entry-level workers, many young people still face difficulties entering the labour market after graduation. This highlights a gap between the skills employers need and the readiness of young job seekers. 

The study also found that employers are looking for more than technical or vocational skills. They place strong value on qualities such as responsibility, discipline, honesty, communication, and teamwork. At the same time, digital skills and the ability to use AI are becoming increasingly important in the workplace. 

The research highlights that helping young people prepare for employment requires collaboration between government, educational institutions, and businesses. Young people need opportunities to gain practical experience, receive career guidance, and develop skills that match the needs of employers before entering the workforce. 

The study also recommends six key actions to improve employment opportunities for young people: developing curricula and skills that reflect labour market needs, improving access to quality career guidance, strengthening partnerships between educational institutions and employers, preparing young people for work, encouraging collaboration across sectors, and developing skills standards recognised by employers. 

Guillaume Rachou, Executive Director of Save the Children Thailand, said: 

“Today, many companies say they are struggling to find workers, while many young people say they are struggling to find jobs. One of the key lessons from this study is that young people need more than classroom learning. They need opportunities to learn through hands-on experience, guidance from others, and exposure to the world of work before they graduate. 

Today’s partnership with six vocational institutions is an important step in strengthening the link between education and employment. It will help young people better understand career pathways, develop the skills employers are looking for, and enter the workforce with greater confidence. Preparing young people for the future is not the responsibility of any one organisation alone—it requires a shared commitment from all sectors.” 

The six institutions signing the Memorandum of Understanding are Sahapanich Business Technological College, Rattanakosin Technological College, Siam Technology College, Siam Business Administration Technological College (Saphan Mai), Siam Business Administration Nonthaburi Technological College, and Buddhamonthon Industrial and Community Education College. 

Through this partnership, the institutions will work together to strengthen career guidance, expand internship opportunities, develop skills that match labour market needs, and create more employment opportunities for young people.