Business unit refresh to adapt to rapidly changing workplace
The redevelopment of a unit in Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) business program will give graduates the skills, confidence and industry awareness to thrive in today’s rapidly changing workplace.
Recently CDU’s MAN105 – Introduction to Management, a core first-year unit which introduces students to the fundamentals of management, was redeveloped as part of a broader initiative to strengthen graduate employability and support future management professionals in the Northern Territory.
The “work readiness” of university graduates is in the spotlight, with the Jobs and Skills Australia 2025 Report finding that while graduates often demonstrate strong academic performance, many experience significant challenges when transitioning into the workforce.
These challenges include deficiencies in soft skills such as teamwork, professional communication, and problem-solving; limited practical experience resulting from insufficient access to placements, internships, or job simulations; and difficulty adapting to multicultural, high-pressure, or service-oriented work environments.
Of note, the report found one of the key contributing factors is underdeveloped partnerships with industry.
To address this, CDU academics Dr Jianhua (Jane) Zhang and Roopali Misra, who are lecturers in the Faculty of Arts and Society, used their Research and Teaching Innovation Grant to develop an initiative to improve skill gaps in the modern workforce.
Fifteen industry professionals from a range of organisations joined CDU academics and the Careers and Work‑Integrated Learning teams for a collaborative discussion on workplace trends, graduate capabilities and opportunities to enhance applied learning throughout the semester.
Feedback from these professionals informed the redevelopment of MAN105, which features applied learning experiences focused on sustainability, AI adoption, globalisation, diversity, communication, teamwork, and organisational change leadership.
The consultation also marked the beginning of extended partnerships with local organisations, with many participants expressing interest in ongoing involvement through guest speaking, panel discussions, case study contributions, workplace visits, and mentoring opportunities.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have such engaged industry partners who are willing to share their expertise,” Dr Zhang said.
“The insights gathered will directly inform the design of real-world teaching activities, ensuring our students are learning what employers actually need. This is just the beginning of the conversation, and we hope to build long-term collaboration beyond the classroom.”