Every year, the placement season at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay is eagerly anticipated by students and stakeholders alike. However, this year, the institution finds itself grappling with a concerning trend: a significant proportion of graduates remain without job offers, fueling debates and raising questions about the efficacy of the placement process.
The recent headlines sparked by reports suggesting that 36% of students failed to secure placements have prompted IIT Bombay to react swiftly. The institute took to social media to counter these claims, citing data from an exit survey conducted among graduating students from the 2022-23 batch. According to the institute’s post, only 6.1% of the graduating cohort are still in pursuit of employment opportunities, presenting a stark contrast to the previously reported figures.
Lately there has been news that over 30% of IITB students do not get jobs! An exit survey among graduating students in 2022-23 says only 6.1% are still looking for jobs. Here is the survey result for you to decide… pic.twitter.com/ICrAQUdpVt
— IIT Bombay (@iitbombay) April 4, 2024
Despite the institute’s efforts to present a more optimistic picture, concerns persist regarding the discrepancy between the reported numbers and the ground reality. The assertion that a mere 6.1% of graduates are yet to secure jobs stands in stark contrast to the prevailing narrative of a substantial portion of students facing unemployment.
Delving deeper into the available data, a complex narrative emerges. While the institute’s figures paint a more reassuring picture, they also reveal that a sizable portion of graduates have pursued alternate paths post-graduation. According to the data shared, 57.1% of the 2022-23 batch secured jobs through college placements. Additionally, 12.2% opted for further education, while 10.3% secured off-campus employment opportunities. A notable 8.3% chose to pursue careers in public services, showcasing diverse career trajectories among IIT Bombay graduates.
However, amidst the varied pathways chosen by graduates, the lingering issue of unemployment remains a pressing concern. The discrepancy between reported figures and on-ground realities underscores the need for transparent and accurate data dissemination regarding placement outcomes.
As the debate surrounding placement rates at IIT Bombay continues to unfold, stakeholders advocate for comprehensive measures to address the underlying challenges and ensure equitable opportunities for all graduates.
One of the primary challenges highlighted by officials from IIT Bombay’s placement cell is the difficulty in inviting companies to the campus amidst the backdrop of a global economic downturn. Negotiations regarding salary packages have become more intricate, with many companies hesitant to adhere to pre-decided salary structures set by the institute. Consequently, the recruitment process has witnessed a shift, with a majority of participating companies originating from the domestic market rather than international firms. This shift reflects the evolving dynamics of the job market and underscores the need for adaptability among both students and recruiters.
Furthermore, the pursuit of higher salaries among students has emerged as a noteworthy trend, often overshadowing considerations of job satisfaction and career growth. The emphasis on securing lucrative packages has led to instances where offer letters are declined in favor of alternative employment opportunities, contributing to the overall complexity of the placement landscape.
IIT’s low placement
Critics have also scrutinized the communication strategies employed by the placement cell, labeling them as “placement propaganda.” Instances such as the misreporting of the number of students securing offers exceeding Rs 1 crore have exacerbated tensions and heightened stress levels among students navigating the post-COVID-19 job market landscape.
In response to these challenges, stakeholders advocate for a holistic approach encompassing enhanced industry collaborations, transparent communication, and proactive support mechanisms for students. By fostering an environment conducive to holistic career development, IIT Bombay can navigate the evolving job market landscape while ensuring equitable opportunities for all graduates.
