Al-Intaj: Jurnal Ekonomi dan Perbankan Syariah
Vol. 11 No. 2 (2025)

Bridging the Gap: Link-and-Match Strategy for Sharia Economics Graduates in Islamic Non-Bank Financial Institutions

Naili Rahmawati (Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram)
Dahlia Bonang (Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram)
Shafinar Ismail (Universiti Teknologi MARA, Melaka)



Article Info

Publish Date
08 Sep 2025

Abstract

Purpose:This study examines the link and match strategy in higher education to bridge the gap between graduates' skills and industry demands, particularly in the Islamic Non-Bank Financial Industry (IKNB Syariah). By adopting Human Capital Theory, this research highlights the importance of aligning university curricula with labor market needs to enhance graduates' employability.Design/Methodology:A qualitative research approach with an inductive methodology was used to explore the effectiveness of link and match policies. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions (FGD) with 40 respondents, including students, government officials, education experts, and industry practitionersFindings:The study identifies curriculum misalignment, limited industry engagement, inadequate internship programs, and a lack of technology integration as key barriers to the effectiveness of link and match. However, competency-based curricula, industry partnerships, graduate involvement, and digital learning adoption significantly support graduate readiness for the workforcePractical Implications:Strengthening university-industry collaboration, implementing professional certification programs, and integrating technology into learning are crucial strategies to enhance the effectiveness of link-and-match policiesOriginality/Value:This research provides a comprehensive analysis of the link and match strategy in Sharia economics education, emphasizing the role of Islamic finance industry collaboration in improving graduate employability

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Journal Info

Abbrev

Al-Intaj

Publisher

Subject

Religion Economics, Econometrics & Finance

Description

Focus Al-Intaj: Jurnal Ekonomi dan Perbankan Syariah provides a scholarly forum for researchers, academics, and practitioners to discuss contemporary and emerging issues in Islamic economics, banking, and finance. Scope The journal welcomes original empirical and theoretical contributions covering, ...