Experienced job applicants without a degree can also be suitable candidates
It is not surprising that Robert Chow Yung lost his temper with legislators Cheung Man-kwong and Emily Lau Wai-hing concerning his fitness for the post of RTHK director, 'Trio bemused by degree broadside' (South China Morning Post, February 26).
I cannot judge his ability because I do not know the man. What I do know is that these two legislators, in their criticism of Mr Chow, have proved themselves to be both arrogant and ignorant. Or is it some prejudiced political agenda they stick to?
Fitness for a post depends mainly on ability and experience in the field. Without mentioning his name, I know a person who never had the chance to study at university but who is now, after many years of experience in the Information Department, a brilliant writer. These legislators may not know that one of the senior secretaries in the Legislative Council who, although through misfortune had never studied to university level, was selected as the best candidate for a high post among several applicants with degrees. She proved herself totally suitable for the job.
On the other hand, I am sure many readers could name a president who attended a top university, but seems to have learned nothing either from study or experience.
It will remain in my mind forever and has kept me humble how, on my first day at university, the lecturer warned his students: 'You probably feel smart because you have entered university, but before you graduate, you will realise how little you know.'
