Educate for the economy as well as the soul…

THE range, style and function of courses must evolve to suit everyday changes and challenges. In recent years there has been a steady shift towards funnelling people into courses that are economy driven. Tailor-making courses to suit demands and shortages within our economy is far from a poor strategy, but we must also remain cognisant of the fact not all education and training is of a ‘functional’ variety; education equally fulfils the role of producing cognitive well-being and a more enriched outlook on life.

The seismic shift in educational options in the last 10 to 15 years reflects this all-inclusive approach. In the past an individual was expected to pivot themselves around a set educational criteria and while there is still a structured route to education, it’s now far more flexible and receptive to the individual’s needs, interest and expectations.

Education, to some extent, was unfairly burdened by its duality with employment. No educational pursuit was deemed worthy of acclaim if it did not pave the way to job creation. In my view this seriously overlooks the personal benefits of education. Many individuals can be very goal orientated when it comes to education and know from the get-go what they want to study. However, others may decide to take a more selective approach. This can arise over uncertainty on what to do or just wanting to keep your options opened. Equating a monetary outcome to education only reveals half the story of its worth. Understanding education’s primary purpose is to know that it enriches the soul on a multitude of levels. Always study what you love and follow your own goals. That outcome is something money can’t buy.