What are the hidden risks of prioritising PhDs and publications for academic hiring?

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The Overemphasis on PhDs and Publications Poses Hidden Risks in Academic Hiring

Prioritising academic qualifications, specifically PhDs and publication records, in the hiring process for Malaysian universities carries significant hidden risks. While these criteria are increasingly mandated or adopted, they can inadvertently exclude highly capable educators, create a disconnect between institutional rankings and student needs, and overlook the practical skills vital in certain disciplines. This stringent approach may ultimately hinder the quality of education and limit the dedication lecturers can offer students.
A New MQA Rule Mandates PhDs, Creating Barriers

A recent Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) rule, implemented within the last two to three years, now requires new academic hires to possess a PhD. This stipulation presents a considerable challenge for individuals with extensive teaching experience but whose doctoral qualifications are not in a directly related field. Consequently, many potentially good lecturers may find it difficult to even secure an interview, regardless of their practical expertise or years of service.
Private Institutions Chase Rankings Through Publication Metrics

Many private Malaysian universities have adopted stringent publication requirements, often measured by metrics like the H-index, as a strategy to improve their international rankings in assessments such as the QS and Times Higher Education rankings. This pursuit of higher rankings is driven by the potential for increased student enrollment, particularly from international students, which directly translates into greater financial returns for these institutions.
Potential for Excluding Effective Educators and Mismatching Skills

The rigid adherence to PhD and publication requirements risks overlooking a substantial pool of effective lecturers and teachers. These individuals may excel in communication, student engagement, and support but might hold a Master's degree or simply not have a prolific publication record. This disconnect arises because the qualities that make a university attractive in rankings, such as high H-index scores, do not always align with the qualities students value, such as caring and dedicated instructors.
Practical Skills May Be Undervalued in Certain Disciplines

In specific fields like journalism, video production, teaching, and graphic design, practical skills and real-world engagement are often more critical indicators of professional competence than academic publications. Practitioners in these areas, deeply involved in their craft, may lack the time or inclination to produce lengthy academic manuscripts. The current hiring emphasis on publications may therefore disadvantage highly skilled professionals who could otherwise contribute significantly to student learning and industry relevance.

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What are the hidden risks of prioritising PhDs and publications for academic hiring?

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