Education is undoubtedly essential. However, after dedicating considerable effort to becoming a Doctor of Science, I find myself questioning why the educational system has deviated from its intended purpose and why it remains so challenging and time-consuming to implement beneficial changes.
Firstly, education should inherently be enjoyable. From an early age, children learn about specific moral principles, behavioural norms, and the society they inhabit. They should be encouraged to draw intuitive conclusions and engage in playful learning. Critical thinking should be fostered, not only about the phenomena around them but also through self-reflection. Unfortunately, this is not the case today. Children are moulded to fit certain expectations and are often led to believe they possess talents they do not have, such as being world-class singers without a musical ear.
Beyond the issue of children not enjoying school and being denied the freedom of childhood, the fundamental problem is that education is no longer valued for its potential to inspire personal growth, improve lives, and benefit society as a whole. Instead, education is associated with prestige and financial gain, becoming the cornerstone of a profession. Over two-thirds of students and doctoral candidates admit enrolling in specific courses or colleges for job prospects or financial reasons, or because they believe a degree is necessary for success—or worse, because their parents insisted they were worthless without one.
This highlights the core issue with the education system: an individual’s personal value is unrelated to the roles society has devised to measure worth. As human beings, we are inherently valuable and possess a multitude of talents. Our purpose is to follow our passions and contribute positively to the community. If fortunate enough to be close to the source of blessings and wealth, one should use their influence to enhance the community through ideas and enterprise, multiplying resources to help others. Similarly, work should be fulfilling and enjoyable, providing happiness. This is not an unattainable ideal; rather, it is a fundamental truth. When one finds fulfilment in their work and aligns it with a larger purpose, they can endure challenges and ultimately be rewarded for their efforts.
Regarding education, teachers should receive the highest salaries, as they lay the foundation for our children’s dreams. If a child is not fortunate enough to have supportive parents, teachers play a crucial role. Valuing and adequately compensating teachers will motivate them to give their best for our children. Currently, teachers are undervalued and underpaid. In higher education, there is still too much ego, inferiority complexes, and unnecessary demonstrations of personal worth. To achieve excellence in education, we must compensate the best educators appropriately. The best educators are not only skilled and competent but also possess emotional intelligence, vision, and the ability to inspire others.
We must remember that we, the people who invented professions, built this system. Therefore, we have the power to change it. Do not allow yourself to think you are worth more based solely on your profession. Always strive to be a good human being—that is your greatest value. Every occupation is worthy of respect, including yours. So why blindly accept the status quo without re-evaluating decisions and seeking improvements for everyone’s benefit?
If you hold a diploma or doctoral degree, it is your duty and responsibility to help others, not merely to build a career. Use your knowledge and skills to create positive change, not to seek validation or financial gain. Pursue your dreams with courage and build a better world for everyone.
Avoid using your degree as a status symbol, like some use luxury cars. Instead, let it be a springboard to new opportunities and challenges where you can make a positive impact. Do not attend subpar institutions that offer degrees without imparting essential knowledge—both you and the institution know such degrees are worthless. True change is built on genuine values. Once you understand the intrinsic value of life, you will realise how fortunate you are to be here and contribute meaningfully.
In conclusion, the educational system should be devoid of ego, complacency, lack of cooperation, arrogance, and intolerance. It should be a joyful place where children observe the world with curiosity and grow into compassionate, understanding adults who appreciate everyone’s unique role in the world.
While this topic is extensive and could be discussed for days, I hope I have encouraged you to think, as thoughtful reflection is the first step towards positive change.
Remember: when it comes to education and children who are the future – the stakes are definitely high!
Love xx,
Petra
