"Is a university degree worth anything in Pakistan? Don’t we see countless degree holders who spend years pursuing a bachelor's degree only to end up struggling in the job market?" If you've found yourself asking these questions, you're not alone. I had similar doubts when I entered university at 18. Now, at 22 and having recently graduated, the same ill-informed discourse persists.
The Myth of Higher Education
Over the past few decades, Pakistan's socio-economic conditions have worsened, the youth population has grown, and the job market has contracted. As unemployment rises, many young people express frustration with Pakistan's higher education system. Parents and intellectuals are increasingly questioning its value—and rightfully so. This dissatisfaction has fueled a common misconception:
"A university degree isn’t worth it; vocational training offers quicker and easier employment."
In a society where such debates are rampant, I took an unconventional path. While my family hoped I’d become a doctor, I decided to seek career counseling. To everyone's surprise, I was advised to pursue social science majors. Taking this advice seriously, I earned a degree in Public Policy and graduated in July 2024. Now, just a month later, I’m applying what I’ve learned in my new job. But, like many recent graduates, I still encounter the widespread myth:
"Degrees, diplomas, or short courses alone guarantee a job or income."
Busting the Myths
Let's clear up this misconception. While higher education equips you with specialized skills useful for various professional fields, its value extends beyond immediate job prospects. Higher education does not always translate to higher earnings. Ask yourself these questions:
- Is the social exposure of someone who has completed high school, vocational training, and various levels of higher education the same?
- In Pakistan's crowded job market, can anyone with any type of education be certain of finding a well-paying job?
- Why do most employers still list master's degrees or higher as qualifications in job postings?
- Is there a connection between higher education and one’s social status and respect in society?
To dispel the myth that a specific level or type of education guarantees a job, one must understand the broader goals of higher education:
- Broadening horizons
- Cultivating critical thinking, fostering innovation
- Learning through diverse interactions
- Embarking on a journey of self-discovery and skill development
- Crafting a personal growth and development roadmap
So, what's the truth about education and employment? Here it is:
"Knowledge, skill, passion, and a commitment to self-improvement, along with formal education, equip you to pursue employment and fulfillment in life."
Degree vs. Vocational Training: A Comparison
Now, let's compare university degrees with vocational training. In Pakistan, obtaining a formal degree typically involves completing matriculation, then an FSc over two years, followed by a four-year bachelor's degree. Post-graduation, you can either work or pursue further studies.
Vocational training, on the other hand, involves a two to three-year course after matriculation, teaching specific skills for specific jobs. Afterward, you're free to enter the job market without the need for further education.
Pros and Cons of University Degrees
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| More knowledge of diverse subjects | Longer duration |
| Increased exposure | Higher financial burden |
| Access to highly paid job opportunities | Longer time to employment |
| Multiple career options | High market competition |
| Opportunities for advanced degrees (Master’s, Ph.D.) |
Pros and Cons of Vocational Training
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Short duration | Limited job opportunities |
| Lower costs | Fewer career growth opportunities |
| Early entry into the job market | Lower-paying professions |
| Learning employer-demanded skills | Skills demand may fluctuate |
Degree vs. Skill in Pakistan: A Misguided Debate
Numerous blogs and articles over the past decade have fueled a misinformed debate: “Degree vs. Diploma,” “Degree vs. Skill,” “Degree vs. Freelancing,” and “Degree vs. Vocational Training.” These discussions often lack depth and foresight, misleading many young Pakistanis.
I've encountered success stories from both degree holders and those who pursued vocational training, diplomas, or freelancing careers. However, success stories are usually context-specific and don’t account for the countless degree and diploma holders who remain unsuccessful. Does any one path guarantee success?
How to Make the Right Choice
So, how do you choose between a degree and vocational training? This choice should be based on rationality and personal circumstances. If you don’t have financial obligations at a young age and can afford university, it will likely be more rewarding. If you need to join the job market sooner due to time or financial constraints, vocational training might be the better option.
A Threat to Higher Education in Pakistan
Many people misunderstand the role of skills in the development of advanced nations like Japan, South Korea, and China. Some argue that these countries offer numerous skill-based jobs, downplaying the importance of research and innovation. However, this perspective is misleading.
Here are some statistics to consider:
| Country | Research Spending (% of GDP) | Higher Education Enrollment Rate | Literacy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| China | 2.65% | 72% | 97.15% |
| Japan | 3.59% | 62.14% | 99% |
| South Korea | 4.90% | 76.20% | 98% |
Higher education, research, and skills development go hand in hand. In these countries, universities are hubs of critical thinking, innovation, and research. Their governments heavily invest in research and development, fostering innovation that drives their economies.
The Real Issue with Higher Education in Pakistan
The true problem isn't that degrees are worthless—it's the quality of education in Pakistan. The entire system needs reform to produce graduates who are creative and capable of independent thinking.
The Government's Role
The whole system needs to be reformed so that it produces good quality students with the ability of creativity and independent thinking. Then such a system needs to be made equally accessible and affordable across the country. For the higher education sector, the government needs to increase its spending in research and development. Moreover, instead of increasing the number of universities which do not produce quality graduates, the quality of the existing institutes should be greatly improved.
The government should increase spending on research and development and improve the quality of existing universities rather than simply increasing their number.
The Role of Students
Students must also recognize the value of their time. Take charge of your personal and professional growth by pursuing internships, managing events, and engaging in extracurricular activities. Use vacations to learn the skills your profession demands. This is how you can realize the true worth of your degree, discovering yourself, honing your skills, and gaining the exposure needed to build a successful career.
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