PRIVATE SECTOR EXPECTATIONS REGARDING THE EDUCATIONAL COMPETENCIES OF EXECUTIVE ASSISTANCE STUDENTS: A QUALITATIVE STUDY IN AKSARAY

Authors : Nisa Çağlar, Elif Hasret Kumcu

Pages : 36-58

Doi:10.58793/marusad.1799974

View : 55 | Download : 121

Publication Date : 2025-12-31

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study aims to identify the private sector’s competency expectations from graduates of the Office Management and Executive Assistance program through qualitative interviews conducted with managers and executive assistants. Designed to shed light on the problem of education–employment mismatch, the study involved semi-structured interviews with a total of 30 participants, including one manager and one executive assistant from each firm. The findings reveal that the competencies expected from graduates extend beyond technical knowledge, encompassing versatile skills such as communication, crisis management, time management, and digital literacy. Furthermore, it was determined that existing curricula fall short in practice-oriented content, sector-specific software usage, and effective communication training. This study demonstrates the need for restructuring vocational and technical education programs in line with the evolving demands of the private sector and offers policy-oriented recommendations to decision-makers and educational institutions to strengthen university–industry collaboration.
Keywords : Yönetici asistanlığı, dijital dönüşüm, özel sektör, ofis yönetimi, müfredat

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