The role of external stakeholders in ensuring the quality of educational services of Polotsk state university

Polotsk State University, 211440 Novopolotsk, Belarus

Abstract

In modern conditions, the task of integrating science, education and innovation activities is of great importance. The need for highly qualified and proactive employees leads to the natural integration of the University and employers, who are the main external stakeholders and consumers of educational services. The article discusses the main forms of interaction between Polotsk State University and the main enterprises and organizations of the region. The main results of comprehensive monitoring of employers ‘satisfaction with the quality of training specialists in the higher educational institution are presented. The assessment of consumer satisfaction with educational services in the framework of this monitoring was carried out on the basis of a competence campaign. This is primarily due to the fact that the quality of education is determined precisely by the competencies formed by the graduate, which allow applying the acquired knowledge, skills and abilities in solving specific professional tasks. The monitoring demonstrated a high level of development of a number of competencies, in particular the competence “ability to use information and communication technologies”, which highlights the fact that the educational programs of compulsory and additional education implemented at Polotsk State University provide the knowledge and practical skills necessary for using the latest ICT in professional activities. Employers have also identified the scarce skills of graduates, namely “Ability to take decisive action in case of uncertainty”, “Ability to anticipate a problem” and “Ability to use time effectively”. Based on the self-assessment of graduates, during their studies at Polotsk State University they have to a large extent developed the competences required for successful work in today’s economy. The success of Polotsk State University graduates is clear evidence of the high quality of their training.