From what I've observed, scholars started off on same footings with everyone. They just rise up through the ranks MUCH faster than the non-scholars, where given more opportunities to perform, and were challenged more. Also, many positions in government have no relevancy in the private sector e.g. policy. Many of these scholars shine because they know how to talk and justify "policy making" with convoluted rational that few "outsiders" understand except their own kind.

Anyway, form a senior person in public service "we pay so much for these scholars to study, of course must make sure they perform". it's a self fulfilling prophecy.