‘Underemployed’ labour force a concern as well

Many Singaporeans are obsessed with attaining higher educational qualifications for its own sake, deeming the “paper chase” as a ticket to a good and comfortable life.

However, as the supply of undergraduates increases, fewer professional jobs and spots are available to fit the high volume of undergraduates. This raises concerns because disenchanted individuals then turn to part-time work or jobs, but their potential is not stretched for the income they are getting.

Such “underemployment” is just as worrying as unemployment, and the severity of the situation often goes unreported or is disguised.

These individuals are seen as “employed” and make the employment rate appear better.

Perhaps, the best way to measure underemployment is to compare the similar educational profile of workers against the income of those workers who are justly employed, noting the differences in their salaries. This will bring to light the pool of people who are still finding the right job that matches their skill set.

Underemployed workers should not be counted in the employment rate but kept separate, so that the community is very well aware of the true severity of unemployment and underemployment.