Chemli, SamihaToanoglou, MichailVal Román, José Luis del2025-11-032025-11-032024Chemli, S., Toanoglou, M., & Del Val Roman, J. L. (2024). Skills mismatch and digital skill shortages in tourism: impact on graduate employment and implications for higher education. International Journal of Technology Enhanced Learning, 16(4), 447-465. https://doi.org/10.1504/IJTEL.2024.1418341753-525510.1504/IJTEL.2024.141834https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14454/4215This study aims to contribute to understanding the relationship between digital skills, skill mismatch for tertiary education graduates, and employment rate. The study applies a longitudinal regression analysis across 32 countries over a span of seven years. The results indicate that vertical skill mismatch positively impacts the employment rate. In contrast, the absence of digital skills among tertiary education graduates, particularly in the travel and hospitality sector, negatively affects employment. The study provides valuable insights into the role of the higher education system in addressing skill mismatch within the tourism industry context. Additionally, it underscores the importance of conducting regular curriculum reviews to ensure alignment with the evolving demands of the labour market. These findings contribute to the ongoing discussion on improving higher education to meet industry needs and reduce skill mismatches among graduates.engCurriculaDigital skillsEmployment rateSkill mismatchTourism graduatejournal article2025-11-031753-5263