Who wants to invalidate their degrees? Also how could 42% of U.S. citizens have student loan debts when only chronological adults go to college and of that number many of them do not take out any loans at all?

What a bonehead error. It should have read "42 million Americans."

That said, if those without degrees are now qualified for jobs that previously required a degree, those degrees have become devalued. It takes away the reason for getting a degree.

I do know that the latest statistics indicate that Generation-Z is gradually turning its back on college and going for trade schools instead.

That's a great idea, IMO. Trade schools teach real hands on skills and prepare students for good jobs. But as someone who attended college and grad school, I object to having the value of my education reduced so that those did not earn degrees may advance. Now maybe I'll go back go trade school!