Why College Education Still Matters

By Our Reporter

In today’s society, there’s a growing sentiment advising young people to skip college. Some even point to the success stories of college dropouts like Bill Gates as evidence that formal education may not be necessary for success. As someone who has never been particularly fond of traditional schooling, I can relate to this perspective. Coming from a humble background, raised in a poor family, in a poor village, in a poor district, in a poor country, on a poor continent, the word “poor” was a constant presence in my life.

But despite my aversion to school, I recognized early on that education held the key to breaking the cycle of poverty for myself and my community. The voices advocating for skipping college likely have never experienced the harsh realities of life in places like Uganda or other developing nations labeled as “shitholes” by certain world leaders. In such places, affordable education is not just a luxury but a necessity for lifting children out of poverty.

While the cost of tuition can be daunting, many governments offer feasible payment plans to make education accessible to all. Despite the challenges, education remains a beacon of hope for those seeking to escape the shackles of poverty.

Recently, as I stepped outside to tend to the chickens and a neighbor’s dog, I found myself caught in a sudden downpour. In that moment, I couldn’t help but question the perceived value of education. Here I was, a degree holder, walking chickens and a dog in the rain. It seemed incredulous.

However, upon reflection, I realized that education had afforded me choices. It was my education that empowered me to make the decision to leave the bustling city of Toronto and settle in a humble village. Despite the occasional moments of doubt, my educational journey has opened doors to opportunities I never imagined.

So, to those considering dropping out of school, I implore you to reconsider. While the path may be challenging and the road to success winding, education remains a powerful tool for transformation. Let us not underestimate the profound impact that a college education can have, not only on individual lives but on entire communities and nations.