In China's job market, the emphasis on the prestige of first academic degrees over higher degrees continues to shape career prospects. Despite government clarifications, this practice remains a key factor in hiring decisions. The issue of first academic degree discrimination has recently gained renewed attention during the annual session of China's National People's Congress. Pan Fusheng, an NPC deputy and academician at the Chinese Academy of Engineering, proposed abolishing this form of discrimination. However, opinions on the matter are divided.
Some argue that candidates from prestigious universities have earned their positions by performing well on the gaokao, the national college entrance examination. They believe that the emphasis on first academic degrees is justified. On the other hand, others attribute this trend to the intense competition in the job market. They argue that companies set high recruitment standards due to the overwhelming number of graduates flooding the job market [d98acc89].
The debate surrounding first academic degree discrimination highlights the need for reform in China's job market. Proposals have been made to shift the focus from degrees to skills and experience. By valuing practical abilities and qualifications, employers can create a more inclusive and fair hiring process. This reform would help address the issue of discrimination and provide equal opportunities for all job seekers, regardless of their educational background.
The government's role in promoting this reform is crucial. By implementing policies that encourage employers to prioritize skills and experience, the government can create a more balanced job market. Additionally, educational institutions can play a part by equipping students with practical skills and fostering a culture of lifelong learning. By doing so, China can create a job market that values talent and promotes equal opportunities for all [d98acc89].