KUCHING: Education is an important building block for all people to achieve their full potential in society as well as being essential for politics, economic stability, and social growth.
In this modern day and age, students have a wealth of resources at their disposal, ranging from the internet to the latest advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) to assist them in their studies.
In December 2018, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) proclaimed January 24 as the International Day of Education, recognising the critical role education plays in promoting peace and development.
In conjunction with this year’s International Day of Education, the Sarawak Tribune asked members of the public what education means to them, why it is important, and their advice to those unsure about their educational paths.
As said by Jim Rohn, an American motivational speaker, “Learning is the beginning of wealth. Learning is the beginning of health. Learning is the beginning of spirituality. Searching and learning is where the miracle process all begins.”
Education as a pathway to change
For some, education is not just about learning facts but about self-development and creating opportunities.
“Education means learning—it can be something we already know or something entirely new.
“Knowledge is vast, and we need education to access it. While some may see education as insignificant, for those wanting to change their lives, it’s the key”, said Vivyanna Bunsi Ann, a 28-year-old postgraduate student.
Debin Rhin, a 62-year-old entrepreneur, also stressed the importance of education in creating opportunities.
“Education is a path you take only once in life. Without it, you will be nothing. Education opens doors to other opportunities, and without it, you’ll never be able to explore those opportunities”, he said.
Edwin Agam, a 53-year-old educator, described education as essential for personal growth and building a resilient, positive-minded individual.
“Education is a way to shape individuals into people who are prepared, resilient, and positive-minded in facing life’s challenges. It also contributes to creating a progressive and harmonious community”, he explained.
Why Is education important?
Participants also shared why they believe education is crucial in shaping individuals and society.
“People often say education is important to get a better job, and while that’s true, for me, it’s about knowing the basics,” Vivyanna said.
“Not everyone with an education is clever, but it equips you with the fundamental skills—basic English, basic mathematics—that are essential in work and life”, she added.
Debin echoed the sentiment, saying, “Education is crucial for your own good. Without it, you’ll go nowhere in life. You’ll live an aimless existence.
“Everything in adult life requires education. Without it, luck alone won’t determine your fate, and others may take advantage of you,” he said.
Edwin highlighted education’s role in creating a balanced and competitive society.
“Education is crucial in nurturing well-rounded individuals—physically, emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually.
“This balance helps achieve the nation’s aspiration of developing a society that is both competitive and morally upright,” he emphasised.
Advice for the unsure
When asked what advice they would give to those uncertain about their educational paths, all three respondents had thoughtful insights.
“It depends on what they want for their future. If you need to work early because you need money, then work, but if you feel education is important and you want to learn more, meet people, and make connections, pursue your studies.
“Those three or four years in universities will be something you cherish forever, and they’ll make job searching much easier,” Vivyanna shared her advice.
Debin shared a similar sentiment about the importance of continuous learning.
“My advice is to keep on learning. Keep on learning the importance of learning. Education is a tool you will use later in life, and without it, your future may never see the light of day,” he said.
Edwin too emphasised lifelong learning by reminding others to always strive to learn new and important things.
“It’s about improving yourself to elevate your knowledge, skills, and economic standing, not just for your benefit but for the prosperity of your family, society, and the nation. Lifelong learning is the best approach,” Edwin said.
The International Day of Education highlights the importance of education in transforming lives and shaping societies.
Whether it’s pursuing lifelong learning or cherishing the connections made during one’s studies, education remains an invaluable tool for creating positive change.
