According to a report from the Occupational Observatory of the General Directorate of Planning and University Evaluation of the University of Panama, between 81% and 87% of university graduates manage to enter the labor market. The study also reveals that obtaining a second or third degree at university can result in accessing higher salaries and managerial positions. Despite these encouraging data, 15% of graduates face barriers when entering the labor market.
The coordinator of the observatory, Samantha Benítez, mentions that the majority of graduates from the University of Panama find employment in the public sector, although currently the percentage balances between the public and private sectors. Additionally, it is highlighted that women graduate in greater proportion than men and are in high demand in the labor market.
Benítez points out that the reputation of the University of Panama is an important asset for its graduates, as the mere fact of mentioning that they graduated from there offers them better job opportunities. The university has been recognized with five stars in employability in international assessments, which contributes to the high valuation of its graduates in the labor market.
The Occupational Observatory tracks graduates two years after obtaining their degree through surveys that address aspects such as labor insertion, satisfaction with the studied career, and how they entered the labor market. The study also collects information about the socioeconomic situation of the graduates and their sources of employment, whether through their resume, personal contacts, or competitive selection processes.
For her part, Benítez highlights that 73% of graduates would study the same career at the same university again, reflecting a high level of satisfaction with the training received. The observatory considers itself a crucial tool for improving the university's curricula, which are constantly updated in various faculties to adapt to the demands of the labor market and the needs of the students.
The University of Panama continues its commitment to the professional training and employability of its graduates, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Among the challenges faced by some graduates are the lack of work experience, limitations in mastering other languages, and family responsibilities, especially for women. Benítez highlights that the university is the only one in the country with an office dedicated to tracking its graduates.
