Ielts Academic Writing Task 2 Sample 28

The role of universities is changing in the modern world. Do you think universities should focus more on practical skills relevant to the job market, or should they prioritize academic knowledge and research? Support your answer with examples.

The evolving landscape of the modern world has sparked a debate regarding the changing role of universities. Some argue that universities should prioritize practical skills pertinent to the job market, while others advocate for a focus on academic knowledge and research. This essay will examine both perspectives, illustrating the importance of each approach through relevant examples.

While practical skills are vital for career readiness, academic knowledge and research serve as the foundation for innovation and intellectual advancement. Therefore, universities should strive to strike a balance between imparting practical skills and fostering academic inquiry.

This essay will first explore the importance of universities imparting practical skills relevant to the job market, emphasizing their role in preparing students for professional success. Subsequently, it will discuss the significance of prioritizing academic knowledge and research, highlighting their contribution to societal progress and intellectual development.

Universities play a crucial role in equipping students with practical skills that are essential for navigating the job market. For instance, programs offering internships, co-op opportunities, and hands-on training empower students to develop industry-specific competencies and professional networks.

Moreover, partnerships with businesses and industry leaders enable universities to tailor their curricula to meet evolving market demands, ensuring that graduates are adequately prepared for the workforce.

In addition to practical skills, universities serve as hubs of academic knowledge and research, driving innovation and intellectual progress. Through research endeavors, universities contribute to the expansion of human knowledge across various disciplines.

For example, breakthroughs in medicine, technology, and social sciences often originate from academic research conducted within university settings. Furthermore, academic inquiry fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, skills that are invaluable for addressing complex societal challenges and driving positive change.

In conclusion, universities should strive to strike a balance between imparting practical skills and prioritizing academic knowledge and research. While practical skills are essential for career readiness, academic inquiry serves as the foundation for innovation and societal progress.

By integrating both approaches into their educational frameworks, universities can better prepare students to thrive in the dynamic and interconnected world of the 21st century.

Note: This is a sample answer, and there can be many other views and sentences used to write the answer.