News analysis

Why are non-university graduates still being paid so much less than university grads?

Degree holders continue to command much higher pay than non-degree holders. If not addressed, this can lead to jobs mismatch, resentment and social fragmentation.

Up till today, degree holders continue to command a wage premium. PHOTO: ST FILE
New: Gift this subscriber-only story to your friends and family

SINGAPORE - The debate has raged for years: Do non-university graduates have significantly poorer prospects for career and salary progression than university graduates? If so, can the gap be narrowed?

Bear in mind that there has been no shortage of efforts to give non-university graduates a leg-up.

Already a subscriber? 

Read the full story and more at $9.90/month

Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month

Unlock these benefits

  • All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com

  • Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device

  • E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you

Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.