Education and the Winding Road to Progress by Ameer

Education and the Winding Road to Progress by Ameer - April 2015 Scholarship Essay

Our society has fought over the issue of education for several centuries, and even after revolutions and rebellions, we still have doubts about its use and purpose. Even in third-world countries where schooling is reserved solely for the upper class, education is seen as one of the most valuable qualities one can possess. In regards to social status, knowledge is seen as a mark of power, as many of the most astute individuals are revered and respected. However, many may argue that education has no purpose at all, and that it is unnecessary,while others see the true value of education. I see the benefits that education has on our progressive society and the world as a whole.

I believe that education is essential for success. Education provides knowledge that allows for the development of our society. Without proper education, we, as humans, would be lost. We would maintain a stagnant role and never develop as a species. Educated individuals are the lifeline for our developing society. Our advances in medicine, technology, and communication would not even exist without knowledgeable individuals. These educated beings are the backbone to progress in our modernized world. Whether it be a cure for a deadly epidemic, or the newest iPhone, these experts are the minds behind it all.

Having an education also allows one to be self-sufficient. Most paying jobs are given to the educated, well-taught people. With our progressive society, there is a high demand for people who have a strong background and education, which translates to higher incomes. Having a steady pay allows for one to build a family and provide for himself and others. As this is one of the primary goals for one to have, education plays a big role in one’s life. Furthermore, being educated provides one with knowledge and specialized skills in various fields, opening job opportunities for them. In addition, education provides one with a pragmatic approach, allowing them to think in a practical sense. This prepares students for challenges that they may later face in the future.

Lastly, education provides us with self-knowledge. It allows us to challenge previous thoughts and institutions. With education, we are able to think for ourselves and further improve the world around us. Education is one of the most powerful weapons we can have. As the saying goes, “Knowledge is power,” and I agree with this. In any situation, if one is educated while another is not, the educated individual will always triumph over the other. We can see this in the story told by Malala Yousafzai. She fought for education for women in Pakistan as male militants hindered women from receiving any schooling. The male fighters knew that if the women gained knowledge, they would challenge the men and gain strength. This is why Yousafzai advocated education for all. Regardless of where one is or what situation one is placed in, they will always retain their education. One may have everything taken from them, but they will never be stripped of their knowledge. This is why education is so useful. No matter what your circumstances may be, the things you have learned and skills you have attained will always remain with you, enabling you to spread your knowledge and help others. This, in turn, will allow you to make contributions to our progressive society.

Education is the most treasured investment that we can own. Having it provides a power that nothing else can give us. As it provides knowledge about ourselves and our community, education will always be the key to the ever-improving, progressive world we live in. Overall, education is an integral part of our modern world and we should strive to put our best efforts in preserving it for future generations.