In the modern world, education has largely come to be the means to equip one with a job, or some form of employment. But what does education really entail? And how much does education do to help us fulfil our true potential?

Globally, formal education systems are in place to standardize knowledge and skills. Formal schooling seems more and more like mere preparation for entrance and other exams, with a definite and clear hierarchy of subjects. Maths and sciences are always perceived at the top of humanities and arts, and one could argue that this is because of their power to provide livelihood.

However, today we see an inflation of education. A job that would be available to someone with a BA in the past now requires someone with an MA or a PhD. People with double degrees have to head to the job centre on account of growing unemployment. This inflation is increasing year by year as the age of super specialisation sets in and more and more people go to university.

What education needs at this point, is a fundamental overhaul. Instead of thinking of education as a means to gain a livelihood, why not encourage individual talents and aptitudes? Why not instil dignity and pride into students wishing to pursue non standard subjects?

Formal education worldwide has been geared towards a globalised and industrialised society. But we all know that the order of the world as it stands is facing many problems and is unsustainable. It is our education that will empower the people who are going to shape the future. It is important to change our education system if we want to change the future.