Millions of Chinese citizens are vying for a chance at public sector employment as a record 3.7 million people prepare to take the national civil service exam this weekend. This surge in applicants reflects a growing trend of workers seeking job security in the public sector amid economic challenges.

Record Number of Applicants
The civil service exam is set to take place on Saturday and Sunday, with applicants competing for 38,100 available positions, resulting in an average of 97 candidates per job. This year's exam is notable as it marks the first since the Chinese government raised the age limit for certain roles, allowing more individuals to apply. The age limit for general candidates has increased from 35 to 38, while those with postgraduate degrees can now apply until the age of 43.

High Demand for Specific Positions
Among the jobs available, the role of immigration officer in Ruili, a city in Yunnan province bordering Myanmar, has attracted the most interest, with 6,470 applicants for just one position. This reflects the heightened competition for stable jobs within the public sector, as more individuals seek out roles that offer long-term security.

Shifts in Employment Preferences
The increase in applicants comes at a time when China's economy is facing significant challenges. The country has seen a shift in the job market, with a growing preference for public sector roles over private sector jobs, which are often viewed as more precarious. George Magnus, a research associate at Oxford University's China Centre, noted that the occupational structure has changed dramatically, with many workers now favoring the security of government jobs over the risks associated with commercial enterprises.

Economic Context
China's unemployment rate stands at 5.1% for the general workforce, but it rises to 17.3% for young adults aged 16 to 24, excluding college students. The government has faced pressure to address these high unemployment rates, particularly among youth, as millions of graduates enter the job market each year. The preference for public sector jobs is underscored by the economic insecurity many face, prompting a return to the "iron rice bowl" concept, which symbolizes job security in the public sector.

Wrap-up
As the civil service exam approaches, the record number of applicants highlights the increasing desire for stable employment in China. With economic uncertainties and high youth unemployment, more individuals are turning to the public sector for job security, reflecting significant changes in the employment landscape.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team