IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

IIARD International Journal of Economics and Business Management (IJEBM )

E-ISSN 2489-0065
P-ISSN 2695-186X
VOL. 11 NO. 3 2025
DOI: 10.56201/ijebm.vol.11.no3.2025.pg267.277

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Assessing the Preparedness of Business Education Graduates for Success in a Digitally-Driven Economy in the 21st Century

Atah, Cletus Akpo Alabi, Blessing Ebifakumor

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Abstract

This study examines the preparedness of business education graduates for success in a digitally-driven economy in the 21st century. Two specific objectives and corresponding research questions guided the study. The survey research design was adopted, with a population of 112 business education graduates who responded to the research instrument. The instrument, titled Assessing the Preparedness of Business Education Graduates for Success in a Digitally-Driven Economy Questionnaire (APBEGSDDEQ), was used to collect data from the respondents. The instrument for data collection was validated by three experts, and a reliability coefficient of 0.79 was obtained using Cronbach's Alpha. Mean and standard deviation were employed to answer the research questions. The findings revealed that business education graduates are moderately prepared for success in a digitally-driven economy. They expressed confidence in using basic digital tools such as Learning Management Systems, office productivity software, and digital communication platforms. However, gaps were identified in advanced areas such as data analysis, e-commerce strategies, and the practical application of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and big data. While the business education curriculum incorporates fundamental digital skills, it requires greater emphasis on hands-on training, the integration of industry-specific tools, and alignment with current technological trends to fully equip graduates for the demands of the 21st-century workplace. The study concludes that business education curricula must undergo continuous modernization to better prepare graduates with advanced digital competencies and ensure their readiness for the rapidly evolving digital economy. It is recommended that universities collaborate with industry stakeholders to design curricula that reflect the current needs of the job market.

keywords:

Business education, digital skills, curriculum effectiveness, preparedness and

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