I was impressed with the advice given recently by US President Barack Obama to young Americans when he underscored the importance of education as a vehicle for social mobility.
“I stand here as President of the United States because of the education I received.” The US President could not be more correct when he told college students that we live in a new world where competition for jobs will be global and not just limited to Americans but more so competition among youths from China and India. He described those kids as “hungry” who are working hard and encouraged American youths to come to terms with this reality.
The US President emphasized the importance of education not only in terms of getting a job but also in terms of providing other essential skills such as critical thinking, discipline and on the whole being a better person. “Education made all the difference in my life” he said.
The same holds true for so many people who occupy leading positions in our society. We live in what is known as the knowledge society and failure to take advantage of education opportunities could prove costly.
I thought of sharing the above with readers, especially our young people.