Writing report

academic IELTS Writing: Task 2

Overall score

8.00

8.0 of 9.0

Submitted on

Jun 15, 2025 (10 months ago)

Writing duration

0 minutes

Task description

Some people think that universities should provide graduates with the knowledge and skills needed in the workplace. Others think that the true function of a university should be to give access to knowledge for its own sake, regardless of whether the course is useful to an employer. What, in your opinion, should be the main function of a university? Give reasons for your answer and include ay relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

You should write a minimum of 150 words.

Source: Cambridge 7

Task answer

There has been extensive debate on whether higher education should focus on giving students practical abilities or providing them with theoretical knowledge without regard to the job market. In my opinion, getting school leavers ready to join the workforce should be the main purpose of institutions for the benefit of the students and the economy. It is undeniable that universities can be of great assistance to alumni if they teach job-related courses. In fact, 85% of young adults stop pursuing academics after getting their bachelor's degree; instead, they head out to find a suitable career. Being given practical skills will greatly enhance their competitiveness, especially in today’s job market marked by mass layoffs and fierce competition with more experienced candidates. Arguably, providing the greatest amount of theory possible may prove more beneficial in today’s rapidly changing, unpredictable economy. However, while knowledge may be easily self-learned thanks to the prevalence of the internet and online courses, practical skills cannot. This explains why technology companies are 30% more likely to sign contracts to hire from vocational schools where hands-on experience is emphasized. Therefore, to elevate the learners’ employability, institutions should include job-related abilities in the curriculum. Not only will alumni benefit from receiving career-oriented training, but also citizens’ livelihood. Having experienced newcomers can shorten companies’ training time, which is mostly spent on real world problem solving, allowing for greater productivity from the outset. This increased efficiency can lead to business growth and the creation of new jobs. Moreover, companies will contribute more significantly to national earnings through taxes, which leads to better public services, such as healthcare and education. Hence, a workforce-ready graduate benefits not only themselves but the broader community as well. In conclusion, while acquiring knowledge for its own sake has its value, the main function of a university should be to prepare students for the workforce. Doing so not only enhances their individual career prospects but also contributes to national economic growth.

Word count:320