LETTER | Education the key to a brighter future for all

LETTER | In today's fast-paced technology, education has emerged as the key driver of individual and societal progress. The adage "education is elevation" encapsulates the transformative power of knowledge, highlighting its ability to uplift individuals, communities, and nations.

Now let’s talk about the multifaceted impact of education, exploring how it empowers individuals, breaks down barriers, and fosters social and economic development.

In Malaysia's education settings, and due to the pandemic that changed everything, we are now embracing this lost generation. Many are concerned about the future of this generation which seems bleak due to these new norms.

However, we can see a vigorous approach taken by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek who noticed this worrying trend of school-leavers who had decided not to prolong their education at tertiary levels. And sadly, most of them are Malays!

The government has taken an approach to motivating students to further their studies or else Malaysia is at risk of losing skilled workers in the future. For the betterment of this nation, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has decided to continue the PSD scholarship for students pursuing medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy which had been stopped by the previous government.

Other steps taken are career programmes, continuous cooperation with public institutions of higher learning and private higher education institutions, and government agencies with scholarships, bursaries, and education loans.

Now, it boils down to the question: is there a glimpse of hope in our young generation?

Knowledge broadens our horizons. Looking at the worrying trends, many of our younger generation today are keen to be influencers rather than focusing on studies as it can bring them into the limelight and easy money for doing paid-review in the short term. They do not foresee how things will be in the long run.

How do they survive without proper education if many choose not to embark on a journey to seek knowledge? Facts and figures don’t lie: about 180,680 SPM students from the 2021 school session reportedly chose not to further their education.

We have seen so many examples where people succeed in life through education regardless of their social status and background.

Education is a formidable tool that empowers individuals by expanding their intellectual horizons and equipping them with essential skills. Access to quality education offers opportunities for personal growth, self-empowerment, and the ability to make informed decisions.

Like it or not, we must accept that through formal education systems or alternative learning avenues, education instills confidence, promotes critical thinking, and improve problem-solving abilities, thus enabling individuals to overcome challenges and shape their own destinies.

Moreover, education is a cornerstone of social and economic development. A well-educated population forms the backbone of a prosperous society.

By cultivating a skilled workforce, education drives innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth.

Educated individuals are more likely to participate actively in civic life, contribute to community development, and foster democratic values.

It is only through education that societies can address pressing issues such as healthcare, environmental sustainability, and social justice - propelling progress in multiple spheres.

Education is elevation - a succinct phrase that captures the profound impact of education on individuals and societies.

Education is a powerful catalyst for positive change. It empowers individuals, breaks down barriers, fosters social and economic development, and cultivates global citizenship.

As we strive for a more equitable and prosperous world, investing in education must remain a top priority, which is why government allocation for the Education Ministry is always among the highest.

By recognising education as the key to elevation, we can unlock the immense potential of individuals and societies, paving the way for a brighter future for all.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.