Why Technical Education Isn't Attractive to the New Generation: Debunking Myths and Realities

Taking up a major is a choice that many consider based on their personal aptitude, future goals, and individual preferences. Many students choose to study commerce or accounts, believing these subjects will lead to easier careers such as working in banks or other sectors of commerce. However, is this belief accurate? Does technical education really lack the appeal that commerce and accounts hold?

Is Technical Education Really Unexciting?

It is important to note that the ease of studying technical subjects does not solely depend on the difficulty of the subjects but rather on the individual's mindset and interest. If one can think and approach problems like an engineer, all these subjects, including technical ones, can be approached with ease. They all rely on specific principles and the fundamentals.

The notion that commerce and accounts are easier subjects is a misconception. If you think that studying Accounting or Business alone guarantees success, consider some of the wealthiest individuals in the world. Bill Gates of Microsoft, Jack Ma of Alibaba, and Ma Huateng of Tencent did not pursue these subjects during their university days. Instead, they employed many accountants, MBA graduates, and PhDs. Thus, the path to success in these fields is just as complex and competitive as in technical fields.

A Cycle of Preference

The popularity of different streams is always cyclical. In the 1980s, commerce was the preferred stream. In the early 2000s, engineering gained prominence. Now we see a resurgence in the popularity of commerce. This shift is not driven by any specific reason but rather by the supply and demand dynamics in the job market.

Today, there are an overwhelming number of engineering graduates who are finding it difficult to secure jobs. As a result, many of them are settling for lower-level employment. This trend has led more students to opt for commerce as it appears to offer greater scope and less effort, especially with the advent of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), which has made commerce more attractive.

Perceptions of Technical Education

Many engineering students are often labeled as unemployable, and this has led to the closure of some engineering colleges. This situation fuels the perception that technical education has fewer career opportunities compared to commerce. However, it is essential to consider the broader picture. While the syllabus of most MBA degrees may seem deceptively similar or identical to commerce degrees, students majoring in these fields have many career avenues open to them, including Certified Accountant (CA), Chartered Accountant (CS), and even law. These professions often come with substantial job security and lucrative pay packages.

Far from being impractical, the pursuit of a technical education offers valuable skills that are crucial in today's fast-paced world. Practical experience, problem-solving abilities, and specialization in specific technical fields (like coding, software development, or engineering) offer unique value to employers. These skills can set students apart in the job market, making their careers just as, if not more, attractive than those in commerce.

Conclusion

While the popularity of commerce and accounts may make them seem like easier paths to success, it is essential to recognize the shortcomings of such a mindset. Technical education offers numerous benefits, including unique job opportunities, valuable skills, and competitive advantages. The decision to pursue a career path should be based on personal interests and desired career goals, not just perceived ease. Realizing the value of technical education can help combat the trend of students undervaluing this important field.