Abstract
This research examines students' perceptions of higher education's broader benefits beyond job skills. It emphasizes societal advantages like environmental awareness, well-being, and civic engagement. Focused on 98 international business students at UiTM, it aims to understand factors affecting their selfesteem, particularly the link between academic prowess, social skills, and views on higher education's practical value. The study reveals strong ties between academic ability, social skills, and the importance ascribed to higher education, stressing the need for a holistic educational approach. It suggests future research areas to deepen understanding of tertiary education's relevance and societal impact. Additionally, it proposes ways for institutions to enhance students' appreciation of university education, fostering active engagement and community contribution. Overall, the research contributes to understanding the multifaceted significance of higher education, emphasizing the importance of considering academic and social competencies for informed decision-making and effective educational practices.
Keywords
- Perceptions Search this journal for Perceptions (opens in a new tab)
- Tertiary Education Search this journal for Tertiary Education (opens in a new tab)
- Academic Skills Search this journal for Academic Skills (opens in a new tab)
- Social Skills Search this journal for Social Skills (opens in a new tab)
- Marketability Search this journal for Marketability (opens in a new tab)
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Copyright (c) 2024 Nor Lelawati Jamaludin, Azurin Sani, Faizah Md Sohid, Faizah Mashahadi, Nuryusmawati Yusof (Author)

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Keywords
- Perceptions Search this journal for Perceptions (opens in a new tab)
- Tertiary Education Search this journal for Tertiary Education (opens in a new tab)
- Academic Skills Search this journal for Academic Skills (opens in a new tab)
- Social Skills Search this journal for Social Skills (opens in a new tab)
- Marketability Search this journal for Marketability (opens in a new tab)
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Vol. 16 No. 1(I)S (2024)
Investment Literacy, Talent Retention & Agricultural Risk
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