“The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn and relearn.” – Alvin Toffle.

I have realised that education is not only about going to school or university, but it is what we learn when there is no textbook, module or manual to follow. 

Education has been hit by something of a crisis and while I am sure it can adapt and survive, I am more interested in the ‘education’ outcome during this time.  

With all that is going on and the constant change in the world, now would be a great time to really have an in-depth look at why and how our education system works.We need knowledge, especially practical knowledge that can be used on the ground. Schools and universities are important to society; they are important for the advancement of science, technology and even knowledge itself. A lot is gained from school, but most of the important things in life are not taught in classrooms. They are learned from the outside. Until recently, human life was sort of systematic, but now there is no longer two sides to a story or an argument. 

What is repeated the most or said the loudest is generally accepted as the truth, without a second thought given. Conformity to a higher bureaucratic power for 15 years causes that. 

The majority of the great scientists, inventors, philosophers, mathematicians and authors became great not by going to schools and recycling the same information, but by learning outside the system. Edison and Einstein are two good examples of this.

More could be done – like making schools freer in thought and teaching practical life skills like negotiating and other important aspects of life to students. Importantly, curriculums should be reviewed now and then to stay relevant to the current crop of students. Every generation comes with its
thinking and way of life. 

Education is important. We need an education system that is effective and puts one of life’s decisions in his or her own hands. The freedom to learn in the best method possible should be encouraged amongst the youth and not just for exams or marks but knowledge. 

There is no putting a price on education and the endless opportunities it brings with it – it is a universal language that can and should be taught to everyone in all its raw forms. 

Education is the key to success and the youth are the keyhole to education.

• Olavi Popyeinawa

• Twitter: @olavipopyeinawa

• Email: olavipopyeinawa@gmail.com