An Islamic Work Ethics Perspective on Employability and Employment Performance: A Study of Graduates in Henan Province

This study investigates the influence of employability on employment performance among graduates of applied technology universities in Henan Province, China, through the lens of Islamic Work Ethics. Employability is conceptualized as a multidimensional construct comprising professional skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork competencies widely recognized by employers and educators as critical for workplace success. Guided by Islamic values such as ihsan (excellence), amanah (trustworthiness), ijtihad (intellectual effort), and shura (consultation), the study examines how these dimensions contribute to graduates’ employment outcomes. Using a quantitative approach with a sample of 411 respondents, structural equation modeling results show that professional skills (β = 0.331, p < 0.001), problem-solving (β = 0.283, p < 0.001), and teamwork (β = 0.271, p < 0.001) significantly enhance employment performance. The findings highlight that while technical competence remains the strongest predictor, adaptability and collaboration also play essential roles in shaping long-term career success. From an Islamic ethical perspective, employability is not only an economic asset but also a moral responsibility to serve society with integrity, cooperation, and excellence. This study contributes to the employability literature by integrating Islamic Work Ethics into an empirical model, offering practical recommendations for higher education institutions and policymakers to align skill development with both labor market demands and ethical imperatives.