I agree with everything you’re saying, but FWIW the article seems to be accusing colleges of being too “careerist” and offers basically the opposite of college AND trade school, a philosophical exploration without a particular emphasis on vocation.
Those aren't contradictory. Historically, the intended purpose of University education has always been scholarship, research, exchange of knowledge and ideas etc. If you didn't want that, you would go find an apprenticeship or enroll in trade school.
The whole "have to go to college to get a job" requirement is a very recent development, and that is what the article is speaking against.
