That premise is just revolting. Makes me sick to the stomach.

On the issue of learning engineering on the job: I must take issue with you. The principle of learning on the job is the basis of all apprenticeships and that remains a route to becoming an engineer. In South Africa and more particularly in Germany and Switzerland where the dual system is entrenched - culturally through the guild system - and in the education system. As it is in Sweden. It's at long last making a come-back in South Africa, but will take time.

This principle does apply in medicine if one examines how doctor's training is done. BTW, did you know that most MBBCHBs are not degreed individuals but rather Members of the Collge of Medicine?