BRIDGING THE DIVIDE: INTEGRATING SOFT SKILLS DEVELOPMENT INTO ENGLISH FOR SPECIFIC PURPOSES (ESP) FOR ENGINEERING STUDENTS' EMPLOYABILITY

Abstract

Mastering soft skills, often referred to as "premium skills," is widely acknowledged as a crucial factor in career success. Consequently, these skills will aid alumni in professional integration and enhance their employability. Many graduate engineers in Morocco face significant challenges entering the competitive job market due to a lack of soft skills, particularly in communication. This paper aims to investigate the essential soft skills that future engineering students at IAV need to cultivate to excel in their careers and successfully navigate the evolving demands of the engineering industry. Additionally, the study seeks to explore recommendations for incorporating and customising soft skills in ESP classes to prepare students suitably. This, in turn, improves their employability by effectively integrating these skills. The study employed a quantitative methodology involving 71 engineers who participated in an online survey. The results of the study indicate that stress management and communication skills are among the vital skills students need to develop in their studies. Furthermore, interpersonal skills such as emotional intelligence, teamwork, and collaboration are also emphasised over individual ones, including adaptability and flexibility, networking skills, and cultural awareness. Investigating the impact of tailoring soft skills in ESP classes will provide evidence-based recommendations for experts, educators, and curriculum developers on the best approaches for bridging the gap and improving soft-skill development in ESP courses for engineering students so that they are compatible with the job market’s demands.