Why the biggest mammal lives in the sea? Myths and realities of tackling labour market mismatch: the case of Mauritius

Abstract

Insufficient number of skilled workers as well as a large proportion of the workforce without the right mix of skills and qualifications can seriously hamper the socio-economic growth of a country. Mismatch between demand and supply of labour affects most of the labour market. How can we establish the balance between labour demand and supply? What can be done to reduce the ‘over-supply’ of people with certain skills and qualifications? What is the role of the various stakeholders in dealing with ‘over-qualification’ and skill mismatch? How to ensure that students are studying the ‘right type’ of subjects? How to help people to become employable? This paper discusses the initiatives undertaken by Mauritius in order to reduce the mismatch in demand and supply of labour. Meta-synthesis is used. The multi-pronged approach adopted by Mauritius is presented. The discussion shows that both employee- and employer- focused strategies coupled with reforms in education, training and human resource development has allowed Mauritius to reduce the mismatch between demand and supply of labour as reflected by low unemployment rate. // Paper ID: 241