Empowering Employability in Higher Education through Emphasis on Emotional Intelligence

Abstract

Emotional Intelligence is the ability to manage the emotions of self and others, to achieve fulfillment, success and happiness. In recent years a lot of research has been done to study the importance of EI in the both personal and professional life. Though the field is new, the concept has been ingrained in some of the ancient texts of the world.  Now that it is an established fact that EI is more important than IQ in determining success, does the current system of education cater to the skills and competencies needs of industry and society? What are these skills and competencies that the industries look for? And what are the attributes and human values that the society is in need of? Is it possible to incorporate and implement these skills and competencies in the current education system? What strategies can be employed to develop EI in students? These are some of the questions that this paper explores. The paper also suggests some very practical, useful and effective strategies to develop Emotional Intelligence among students. This paper affirms the fact that EI can be honed and this ability to manage emotions can decide the future path.