Working students at Greek universities

Abstract

PurposeGreece has the highest youth unemployment rate in the European Union. Even though it is clear that persistent unemployment requires bold measures in engaging young educated Greeks in the labour market, there is no coherent policy targeting that population group, especially university students. This research paper aims to explore the idea of restructuring the internal labour market in Greek universities by expanding services and offering part‐time job positions to their students.Design/methodology/approachIn assessing the feasibility of such a project a survey was conducted involving 237 undergraduate students majoring in business management and 22 administrative executives at the University of Macedonia, Greece.FindingsThe survey's main findings indicate that there is a tendency to match job openings with skills supplied by students in a work‐school programme focused on campus part‐time jobs.Research limitations/implicationsA large‐scale national survey involving students from various academic disciplines and executives from different universities would result in a more informed discussion on institutions that promote youth employment.Originality/valueThis study has shown that a work‐study programme promoting work opportunities on campus is plausible in Greece and might have great value for key stakeholders – students and universities.