This thematic paper examines the global skills mismatch in the garment fabrication industry, where the competencies possessed by workers often fail to meet the evolving demands of modern production systems. The study explores how skill mismatches are manifested across labor markets, the factors contributing to these gaps, industry collaboration, and policy responses in addressing them. The reviewed literature suggests that skills mismatch is a widespread challenge affecting both developed and emerging economies. In the garment fabrication sector, evidence from Europe, Asia and Africa indicates that gaps in technical skills may reduce competitiveness, employment opportunities and production efficiency, and highlights persistent gaps between graduate outputs and employer requirements. Three things come up again and again in the studies reviewed: training systems that can adapt, closer ties between industry and academia, and labor market policies that respond quickly. The review argues that no single model will fit every country. Solutions have to be worked out with industry and shaped to local conditions if workers are to keep pace with the garment industry.
Keywords: skills mismatch; garment fabrication; TVET; workforce development; industry–academia links
Author of the Paper
Ganesh Dahal is a TVET expert, academic, and civil and structural engineering professional from Nepal with over 15 years of professional experience. I had completed Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, a Master’s degree in Structural Engineering, and a Master’s degree in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (MTVET). My expertise and research interests include TVET policy and reform, skills development, TVET–industry alignment, skills mismatch, competency-based training, green TVET, employability, and school-to-work transition, alongside structural health monitoring and resilient infrastructure. I am actively contributing to TVET research, teaching, policy dialogue, and skills development initiatives in Nepal.
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