Mandatory retirement age is unjust
There is a rising demand for university professors due to the new 3+3+4 education system. Despite this, some professors will be forced to retire as they reach the mandatory retirement age.
I believe the mandatory retirement age should be abandoned. Older professors have devoted their lives to teaching and acquired invaluable work experience over many years. Their expertise and knowledge can benefit both their students and colleagues.
These days most people who have turned 60 continue to be healthy and energetic. They should be given a choice to decide whether they wish to retire or not. No one should have the right to decide it for them.
People's age should not matter. What should matter is how dedicated they are and how well they continue to perform their duties.
Emily Yu, Hang Seng School of Commerce
From the Editor
Thank you for your letter, Emily. The age of retirement was set years ago when most people died a lot earlier than they do today. The standard of living has also improved so much that many elderly people remain active and sprightly. There really is no reason for them to quit working before they want to or their employer wants them to.
Attitudes to the retirement age are different around the world. People in Europe are upset because they have been asked to work a few extra years past what would normally be their retirement age. Many people in Japan, on the other hand, are upset because they are not allowed to work longer.
It is true that elderly people are storehouses of knowledge and experience. But it is also true that in some jobs, the only way some people can be 'moved on' is when they retire. So some employers welcome the chance to fill the post with someone who has fresh ideas and approaches - and yes, someone younger.
If that rule were removed, it's possible that some of these older people might lose their jobs even earlier. It is a complicated matter.
Susan, Editor
