EDITORIAL: The higher-education degree trapTaiwan ranks second globally in terms of share of population with a higher-education degree, with about 60 percent of Taiwanese holding a post-secondary or graduate degree, a survey by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development showed. However, Taiwan is experiencing the same challenges faced by many highly educated societies: degree inflation and underemployment. Studies by government agencies and academic institutions estimate that about 20 to 30 percent of graduates work in positions that do not require a university degree. Social pressure — from families as well as broader societal norms — often leads young people to believe that a university degree is essential for success. President William Lai (賴清德) has promoted vocational education and encouraged parents to view it as a legitimate alternative to university.

Source: Taipei Times April 08, 2026 18:02 UTC