Hawaii Senate Bill SCR193

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/12/25
• Report Pass: 3/31/25
• Engrossed: 4/1/25
• Refer: 4/4/25
• Report Pass: 4/11/25
• Refer: 4/11/25

Caption

Requesting The University Of Hawaii Community Colleges To Develop A Comprehensive List Of Bachelor's Degree Programs And Other Innovative Workforce Development Pathways That Directly Align With Job Opportunities And Industry Needs Within Their Respective Region Of Service.

Impact

If implemented, SCR193 could significantly influence the landscape of higher education in Hawaii. The Community Colleges would evaluate regional trends and economic strengths to align their programs accordingly. This means students would have access to education that is not only relevant but also responsive to current and emerging job markets, which could lead to increased employability and economic vitality within the state. The proposed collaboration with local industry leaders is designed to ensure that curricula are informed by real-time labor market data and trends, creating a more dynamic education-to-employment pipeline.

Summary

SCR193 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that requests the University of Hawaii Community Colleges to create a comprehensive list of bachelor's degree programs and innovative workforce development pathways that align with job opportunities and industry needs in their respective regions. This initiative underscores the importance of tailoring educational offerings to local economic demands, aiming to enhance the skill set of the workforce in Hawaii and support regional industries such as tourism, agriculture, marine research, renewable energy, and health care. By developing programs that directly respond to sector demands, the resolution seeks to foster a more adaptable educational structure that can better prepare students for the job market.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SCR193 appears largely positive among stakeholders who recognize the need for educational institutions to remain relevant to evolving job markets. Proponents argue that such a comprehensive approach to workforce development will benefit both students and local employers, supporting overall economic growth in Hawaii. However, there could be reservations regarding the rapid adaptation of existing programs and ensuring that quality is not compromised in the pursuit of aligning with immediate job needs.

Contention

A significant point of contention is the balance between aligning educational programs with job opportunities and maintaining the breadth of academic offerings that encourage critical thinking and innovation. While the emphasis on workforce development is commendable, critics may argue that narrowing the focus too much could limit the educational experience and adaptability of graduates in a rapidly changing job market. Ensuring adequate support and resources for implementing these changes may also be raised as a concern among educational administrators.