Influence of Job Market Conditions and Government Policies on Enrolment Trends in Professional Programs: A case of Zambia Centre for Accountancy Studies (ZCAS)

Abstract

This study looked at how government regulations and employment market variables affected the Zambia Centre for Accountancy Studies' (ZCAS) professional program enrolment trends. A closed-ended questionnaire that was given to students as well as educators throughout the university was used in this quantitative study. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences was used to analyse data from 112 respondents (SPSS). The results provided some important new information on how students see and experience enrolling in professional programs. One important conclusion showed that prospective students were worried about their employment prospects. Many respondents were unsure about their employability after graduation, a sentiment that was greatly impacted by Zambia's present economic situation, which has seen volatility across several industries. As prospective students balance their return on investment in school against possible work possibilities, such concerns about future employment might discourage people from enrolling in professional programs. Furthermore, the survey emphasized the view that financial restrictions had a substantial influence on students' decision-making. Several respondents stated that tuition fees and other education-related expenditures were substantial impediments to enrolment. This parallels a wider trend seen in many developing nations, where the cost of higher education remains a major issue for both students and families. Government initiatives encouraging education have emerged as a crucial element in affecting enrolment trends. Participants stated that government-established scholarships, loans, and policy incentives might improve educational access and increase enrolment numbers. This shows that supporting government actions may alleviate the effects of negative employment market circumstances and financial barriers. Finally, this study adds to the current literature by highlighting gaps in understanding the relationship between external economic issues and educational enrolment in Zambia. It highlights the need of a holistic approach to policy formation in which educational institutions, governments, and economic forces work together to increase enrolment rates and ensure graduates have long-term job opportunities.