Debate around value of college degrees in focus

Global backlash against university expansion is growing as countries including the UK, US, and Australia recognize that pushing too many students toward degrees has devalued qualifications and created shortages of skilled tradespeople. UK government adviser Alan Milburn notes that many graduates cannot find work and argues the economy needs more people with technical skills in construction and trades. Several US states are shifting toward skills-based hiring and expanding apprenticeship funding.