Warren Neo, 29, a 2023 business graduate from Nanyang Technological University, has chosen a path different from most of his peers: he is a full-time barista. "I discovered my passion for making coffee while working part-time," Neo recounted. He stated that while he is pursuing a career as a barista, he remains prepared to return to an office job if needed.

Neo represents a segment of Singapore's workforce with qualifications exceeding their job requirements. A survey by the Ministry of Manpower, released in early April, involving 33,000 households, revealed that 19,4% of the labor force holds degrees higher than their current positions. This figure marks an increase from 16,3% in 2015. Notably, 90% of these individuals stated they voluntarily chose jobs below their skill level, prioritizing stability, flexibility, and opportunities for skill development.

Gerald Lee, an engineer, pursued a career in financial consulting in Singapore for its flexible hours and unlimited earning potential. Photo: Kolette Lim

Neo expressed no regrets about his lower salary compared to an office job. "I can pursue my passion and help others integrate into the barista culture," he stated.

Last year, Gerald Lee, 26, a recent engineering graduate, also opted for a financial consulting role, which typically only requires a diploma. Having interned in the tech industry, Lee found the environment too restrictive.

"The sedentary nature and limited leave days prompted my change in direction," he explained. The flexibility and unlimited earning potential of financial consulting appealed to Lee. He travels across Singapore, interacts with many people, and finds the work highly meaningful.

Experts suggest this trend reflects a shift in personal priorities rather than a job crisis. Singapore's 19,4% rate remains lower than the average of 21,6% in high-income economies such as South Korea, the US, and the UK.

Associate Professor Walter Edgar Theseira at Singapore University of Social Sciences noted it is not surprising that most workers voluntarily choose jobs below their qualifications. Many roles requiring lower qualifications, such as sales and real estate, still attract highly educated individuals. "Many people choose these jobs and earn more than positions requiring a university degree," he said.

Survey data also indicated that the proportion of Singapore's workforce with a university degree or higher increased from 51,6% in 2015 to 64% last year, significantly surpassing the 41,2% average in high-income countries. Associate Professor Kelvin Seah of the National University of Singapore predicted that graduate salaries might decrease due to an oversupply, potentially reducing the incentive to pursue a university education solely for income purposes.

Rachel Cheong, a communications graduate, is pursuing a career in floristry, which does not require a degree. Photo: Rachel Cheong

Despite this, many young people do not consider obtaining a university degree a waste. Rachel Cheong, 25, a communications graduate, currently works as a florist and part-time barista.

"I am happy I went to university and enjoy exploring other career opportunities," Cheong stated. After missing out on a full-time communications job last year, she discovered her passion for floristry while assisting a friend.

"Floristry is practical and offers me a chance to be creative. I love what I am doing," she recounted.

By Minh Phuong (Source: SCMP)