UGC-funded degree program is not the only way out

Resistance to non-UGC programs hinders talent development

Among the 50,600 DSE students this year, about 42 percent satisfy the minimum requirement to attend the publicly-funded universities. However, only 15,180 first year places are available for about 21,200 students who qualify. Those unable to access the universities can opt for self-financing programs — such as degrees from privately-funded institutes, associate degrees, or diplomas from the Vocational Training Council and other industry training bodies.

The government has recently provided the non-means subsidy of up to HK$30,800 a year for students enrolled in self-financing degree or topup degree programs. This is to assist HKDSE or associate degree graduates to pursue undergraduate programs. Unfortunately, less than 5 percent of students from associate degree programs enter the publicly-funded universities to complete a full degree.

Many students rush to enroll in these programs without much thought. They would spend two or three years incurring fees of HK$100,000 to HK$300,000, which may not fit their interest, aptitude or future employability.

It is time to re-examine the position of associate degree education in Hong Kong. It is important to make sure an associate degree is value-added. Sometimes, young people would do better to pursue vocational training opportunities offered by the Construction Industry Council and others, as they are more practical and fit the jobs available. I have seen students do exceptionally well in these options.

Worse-off than school leavers

The unemployment rate among associate degree holders is higher than for secondary school leavers. Their wages are not any better. It creates high frustration among our youth and parents. Some feel “cheated” by these programs.

Associate degrees do not provide a significant advantage over secondary school leavers in the employment mar- ket of Hong Kong, which is largely services oriented. The high expectations do not match actual job opportunities. They are lost between degree holders and high school leavers.

Parents need to overcome the mindset that vocational training and competency-based programs are inferior to academic ones. Employability in industry-training programs is almost immediate. Young people should leverage their strengths and parents should respect their choices.

Industries need to improve working conditions, career prospects and remuneration, to attract ambitious young people. Our economy should diversify and invest in the human capital to meet the new challenges.

Soon more seats than students

Due to the shrinking birth rate, the total number of places available in UGC-funded universities and selffinancing institutes will exceed the total number of students by 2022. Selffinancing institutes might be at risk.

The opportunity to further increase quality is key. Quality and relevance of these courses are critical. As a society, if we do not develop a strategy to enable the coming generations to cope with change successfully, there will be lots of unhappy young people on the street.

Life-long learning

In this new millennium, life-long learning is vital. Artificial intelligence and computer automation will replace clerical, mechanical and repetitive work. The pace of change and new knowledge is accelerating. Skills need to be constantly updated. Don’t expect what we learn in any program to provide shelter for life. Passion, curiosity, and the ability to learn and adapt are essential for survival.