教育投资回报率下降，为什么还要上大学？

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the changing landscape of education in China, highlighting a shift in student preferences towards practical and employment-oriented choices rather than traditional prestigious institutions. This reflects a broader transformation in the education system amid a complex job market with a record number of graduates. Group 1: Changing Preferences in Education - High-scoring students are increasingly opting for less prestigious universities with better employment prospects over top-tier institutions with less favorable job outcomes [4][6][7] - The number of college graduates in China reached a record high of 12.22 million, leading to a complex employment situation for graduates [4][6] - The traditional view of prestigious universities as the primary path to success is being challenged as students and parents become more rational in their choices, focusing on the alignment of majors with job market demands [7][8] Group 2: Employment Market Dynamics - The employment market has undergone significant changes due to macroeconomic factors, affecting the job prospects of graduates in certain fields, particularly in industries like real estate and education [7][9] - The expansion of higher education has led to a situation where the supply of graduates exceeds demand, resulting in a decline in the return on investment for a university education [13][14][15] - The average salary of college graduates has decreased relative to the average salary in society, indicating a growing disparity in employment quality [16] Group 3: Skills and Education Reform - There is a pressing need for educational institutions to adapt their curricula to better prepare students for the evolving job market, emphasizing practical skills and interdisciplinary learning [10][11][27] - The importance of soft skills, such as communication and teamwork, is increasingly recognized as essential for employability in the modern workforce [28][33] - The article suggests that universities should focus on enhancing students' adaptability and lifelong learning capabilities to meet the demands of a rapidly changing job market [10][11][39] Group 4: Future Opportunities and Challenges - The rise of artificial intelligence and automation presents both challenges and opportunities for the job market, with predictions of job displacement in certain sectors but also the creation of new roles [30][32][34] - The aging population in China is expected to drive demand for jobs in the care industry, presenting new opportunities for graduates [24] - The article emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to employment policies that align with educational reforms to address structural employment issues [37][39]