Sustainability of Impact Sourcing Initiatives in Higher Education for Graduates' Employability

Impact sourcing (ImS) initiatives in higher education play important roles in the employability of graduates, especially in the global business services (GBS) industry. This study explores the sustainability of ImS in higher education institutions (HEIs) for graduates' employability. This study used qualitative research methodology, collecting data from related documents, observations, interviews, and focus groups with selected students, lecturers, and industry practitioners. The data were analyzed using Sen's capability framework, with the primary objective of analyzing individual capabilities-specifically, conversions, resources, and capabilities. The findings show that ImS could improve future graduates' technical and soft skills, thereby enhancing their employability in the GBS industry. Some constraints that need to be overcome include the infrastructure, rewards, and incentives, as well as system reliability. This study contributes to the development of the capability framework for ImS initiatives in relation to the employability of graduates and other marginalized communities. The conversions, resources, and capabilities should be considered when assessing the impact of ImS. In addition, this study contributes to the talent pool agenda with a specific focus on ImS and graduates' employability.