SOFT SKILLS AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF UNDERGRADUATES: EVIDENCE FROM A STATE UNIVERSITY IN SRI LANKA

Abstract

Soft skills development is an important topic of Human Resource Management. It has become a top priority for workers everywhere. Most organizations are trying to attract & retain their valued employees by enhancing their soft skills. This study aims to analyze how soft skills impact on the academic performance of the undergraduates of Department of Commerce and Financial Management in University XYZ. The general objective of this research is to study on the important soft skills that need for the undergraduates and how it impacts on the academic performance of them. The study reveals the importance of understanding the current levels of soft skills of the undergraduates, identify the impact of the soft skills and recommend inputs and insights to improve soft skills and the working proficiency in the English language of the undergraduates of the department. This research was conducted using the scientific method. The sample size of 50 employees was selected using simple random sampling method. The population consists of 200 undergraduates. Data was gathered through both primary and secondary sources. The conclusion is drawn from the research accepting a significant positive relationship between communication skills and problem-solving skills with academic performance.