Exploring hospitality graduates’ competencies in Malaysia for future employability using Delphi method: a study of Competency-Based Education

ABSTRACT This study explores hospitality competencies needed by the graduates of higher education institutions for their future employability within the industry based on Competency-Based Education. Using the Delphi method, the study involved a panel of industry from four- and five-star hotels in Malaysia as experts. It ends up with three rounds of data collection. Findings from the first round method revealed the experts agreed that 69 competencies are required within the industry. In the second round, the experts indicated that all the competencies are relevant for hospitality graduates’ future employability. The third round showed that the competencies were finalized under clusters, namely, Workplace, Personal Effectiveness, Management and Academic. In conclusion, Competency-Based Education has successfully determined the competencies required by the industry. Further, the study suggests a strong coordination from both educational providers and the industry in preparing hospitality graduates with competencies to enhance future employability and to survive the competitive environment.