We all go through it, from that tense first day in reception to the final day of exams and ‘freedom’ but why is education so important to us as individuals and society as a whole. Here are seven reasons why we all need education:
To prepare us for the world of work
Firstly, we need the basic skills – literacy and numeracy – so that we can function in the world around us. We also need specific skills to enable us to follow the career path we eventually choose. And we also need life skills – the ability to communicate with our peers, to form relationships and to learn to work with people with whom we don’t necessarily see eye to eye.
To improve our quality of life
Work hard and get yourself a good job, we hear throughout our education. And, if we’re lucky, it works. Qualifications bring opportunities to progress in life, earn more and have the income we want in order to buy the things we want and do the things we want to do.
Improving the economy
A skilled workforce enables employers to build and grow, to deliver bigger and better services and products to a wider audience.
Equal opportunities
Understanding your place in the world, through what we learn from school, either in lessons or through interaction with teachers and classmates. It gives us the confidence to stand up for ourselves when we feel we are treated unfairly or discriminated against.
Developing problem solving skills
Algebra lessons or ploughing through Jane Austen may feel like a chore at the time, and we wonder why and when we will ever need that knowledge again. But it is more about developing critical thinking, so that we have skills as adults that can help us make our way through the world, from embracing political debate to working out how to put up a set of shelves.
Contributing back to society
The children in school today are the doctors, lawyers, care home staff, train drivers, IT specialists, etc of tomorrow. We need to educate young people to keep the infrastructure of society going. And, of course, to be prepared for an unknown future. It is said that 65% of children starting school today will do a job that doesn’t exist yet. We need to be ready.
Empowerment
It is said that with knowledge comes power. Equally, with education should come the understanding that you can be whatever you want to be. Education is important because it helps you to stand up for your rights, to follow your goals and dreams and never allow anything to stand in your way.
