Abstract

This review examines the crucial link between employability and essential skills in the modern job market, highlighting the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) for equitable access to these skills. Employability relies on the mastery of essential skills, spanning a wide array of competencies that extend beyond mere technical proficiency. Disparities emerge when assumptions about career readiness and success fail to consider the diversity of backgrounds and educational experiences. Bridging these gaps requires collaborative efforts among stakeholders to tackle issues surrounding the development of essential skills across educational levels to prepare the future workforce.

Keywords:Essential skills; Soft skills; Employability; DEI; Education; Career readiness

Abbreviations:DEI: Diversity Equity and Inclusion