Strategy to develop employee competencies in the food processing industry: a stakeholder's perspective.

Abstract

The food processing industry is facing several challenges, including a growing demand for food, increasing competition, and the need to adopt new technologies. Because of these difficulties, the business sector is under increasing pressure to boost the skills of its employees. Based on a literature review and interviews with industry stakeholders, Food safety knowledge, technical skills in food processing, problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities, communication and teamwork abilities, and digital literacy were identified as the top skills needed in the industry. The necessity to comply with new food safety requirements, the widespread adoption of new technology, and the shifting demographics of the workforce are all contributing to these skills gaps. To address these skills gaps, the food processing industry can develop a comprehensive and sustainable strategy that includes the following steps: 1. Conduct a skills gap analysis to identify the current and future skills needs of the industry. 2. Develop a competency-based training curriculum that aligns with the industry's skills needs. 3. Implement a variety of training delivery methods, such as classroom training, online training, and on-the-job training. 4. Provide employees plenty of room to grow professionally and acquire new expertise. 5. Create a culture of continuous learning in the workplace. 6. Partner with educational institutions to develop training programs. 7. Promote the food processing industry as a career option to young people. By taking these steps, the food processing industry can develop a skilled and competent workforce that is prepared to meet the challenges of the future. Some specific recommendations for industry stakeholders, policymakers, and other relevant actors includes: Industry stakeholders should invest in workforce development and competency building, Policymakers should create policies that support workforce development and competency building, Educational institutions should develop training programs that meet the needs of the food processing industry, Training providers should offer a variety of training options, such as classroom training, online training, and on-the-job training, Labor unions should work with employers to develop training programs that meet the needs of their members & Non-profit organizations should provide scholarships and internships to help young people pursue careers in the food processing industry. By working together, all stakeholders can help to ensure that the food processing industry has a skilled and competent workforce to meet the challenges of the future.