Mismatch between higher education and the labor market: an urgent challenge in Mexico.

The recent publication by the Mexican Institute for Competitiveness (IMCO) has shed light on one of the most pressing issues in Mexico: the disconnect between higher education and the labor market. The report "Compara Carreras 2024" reveals that, in a context where 81% of people with a bachelor's degree earn more than those with only a high school education, many young people continue to choose careers that do not offer a promising future in economic or labor terms. Among the highest-paying careers are fields such as Medicine, Economics, and Engineering, which reflect a clear demand for technical and scientific skills in an increasingly competitive job market. However, the report also highlights the inclusion of Fine Arts in this group, suggesting that creativity and critical thinking are equally valued. This aligns with research from the British agency Nesta, which emphasizes the need for creative skills in the age of automation and artificial intelligence. On the opposite side, the field of educational guidance stands out as the second lowest-paying career in the country, with an average salary of only 16,979 pesos per month (approximately 860 dollars). This low recognition reflects the devaluation of education and teacher training in Mexico, where, despite the fundamental importance of educators, the profession does not receive the support or respect it deserves. Vikas Pota, director of the Varkey Foundation, argues that in countries like South Korea and Finland, teaching is highly valued, and teachers are well compensated, which contrasts sharply with the situation in Mexico. The lack of updating in the academic choices of young Mexicans is concerning. The five most popular careers, which include Business Administration and Law, have remained unchanged over the last decade, indicating a resistance to adapt to the new demands of the labor market. This creates a vicious cycle: as students choose saturated and poorly paid careers, the national economy is deprived of talent in areas that truly need qualified professionals. The dynamics of the labor market are constantly evolving, and according to the report "The Future of Work" by the World Economic Forum, many global companies will adopt new technologies and demand specific skills in the coming years. This includes areas from data analysis to artificial intelligence, fields that are not being sufficiently covered by Mexican universities. The responsibility does not rest solely on the youth but also on an educational system that has failed to adapt to modern times. Furthermore, many teachers lack the support and training necessary to guide students toward more promising careers. This deficit translates into a lack of confidence among students, who are forced to settle for options that do not necessarily guarantee them a satisfactory job future. Without substantial improvement in investment and support for education, the gap between educational offerings and labor demand will widen even further. The fragmentation in the educational system and the lack of career guidance are symptoms of a broader problem in Mexican society. Choosing a career is one of the most important decisions in an individual's life, and it should not be taken lightly. The lack of information and analysis about job opportunities can lead many to a life of economic precariousness, while others, who have considered the future, manage to secure well-paying jobs with prospects. As a society, it is a priority to foster a change in the perception of careers and the value of education. Investing in quality vocational training will benefit not only individuals but the national economy as a whole. At the end of the day, a country that values and supports its educators and its professionals is building the foundations for a more prosperous and equitable future. Education should be seen as an investment, not as an expense, and it is time for Mexico to start acting accordingly.