- Dwindling civil engineering graduates
- Low salaries compared to IT and
other sectors, being primary reason - Experts warn tough times ahead for
the construction industry if this trend continues
The global construction industry, poised to reach a staggering $10 trillion by 2030, faces a pressing challenge – a shortage of skilled civil engineers and managers. In India alone, where the construction market is expected to hit $1.4 trillion by 2025, the demand for skilled professionals like civil engineers and managers is enormous. However, the existing university system and the overall civil industry struggle to attract talented individuals to this sector, resulting in severe repercussions for productivity, project quality, and the construction industry as a whole.
Despite offering a realm of promising career and entrepreneurial opportunities, the field of civil engineering is increasingly overlooked by both parents and their children. This reluctance can be attributed to the challenging work environment and relatively low entry-level salaries. As a result, an increasing number of individuals are gravitating towards the IT sector, enticed by its attractive remuneration packages and more favourable working conditions. Consequently, admissions to engineering courses continue to decline steadily.
In Telangana, admissions to BTech civil engineering courses under the EAMCET convener quota have seen a significant decrease. In the academic year 2017-18, 6,240 seats (74.4 per cent) against the available 8,389 convener seats were filled. However, in 2021-22, out of 6,243 seats, a mere 2,365 seats (37.9 per cent) were occupied. Comparing the years 2017-18 and 2021-22, it is evident that not only has the number of convenor seats plummeted, but the admissions rate has also witnessed a significant decline from 74.4 per cent to 37.9 percent. This decline in civil engineering enrollments can be attributed to the migration of students to other sectors offering better career prospects and economic conditions. According to unofficial statistics from top institutes like NITs, IITs and State universities, only 15 per cent to 25 per cent of civil engineering graduates are pursuing their careers within the construction industry. The rest are opting for jobs in IT and finance sectors due to better salary packages.
Precautionary measures needed
This concerning trend warrants attention and accountability from universities and construction societies alike. Universities and engineering colleges are hesitant to integrate advanced construction techniques into their civil engineering curricula, resulting in graduates being ill-prepared for the demands of the industry. Simultaneously, the construction sector has failed to offer competitive salaries on par with those offered by the IT, pharmaceutical, and financial sectors, often due to the graduates’ lack of practical knowledge and skills. Unlike other sectors, the construction industry invests insufficient time in training and nurturing new recruits, exacerbating the talent shortage.
Experts warn that if this trend persists, the construction industry will face dire consequences due to a dearth of skilled professionals to manage projects effectively. Civil engineers, considered the backbone of infrastructure development, play a pivotal role in the sector. To mitigate these challenges, they call for swift action to implement appropriate measures.
