The Value of Education: Fostering Personal Growth Through Shared Learning

In my life, I've encountered a rather common narrative – the high expectations of a parent who envisions a successful career for their child. In my case, it's my mother, who believes in my hidden genius and envisions me employed in a prestigious government or private sector role with a substantial salary. I am not any of these. As I approach the forth floor, she has been having this thought that perhaps it was never meant to be. My worry is she may feel let down by my inability to get a decent role in government. I know these from our conversations.

However, I've always seen myself as just an average person, making my way with a decent hustle. I was an above-average student, just above average, but the label of "genius" never quite fit. Perhaps that's why you've never heard of me. I loved sports, I still do, and I spend most of my Sunday playing amateur volleyball. Playing was my motivation for school.

As I reflect on my own experiences, I'm drawn into a broader exploration of the purpose and significance of education in my life. For me, education serves as a universally accepted shortcut to the challenges and opportunities that life presents. It's not that life itself doesn't offer lessons; it does, abundantly. It's just that formal education speeds up the learning process. It would take longer to learn some things through experience.

In a way, what you learn in school, might eventually be learnt outside of it, but in a more practical context. School is like a microcosm of life's experiences, a place where you can gain knowledge and wisdom that can be applied in real-world situations. The classroom provides a structured environment for learning, one that equips us with skills, knowledge, and critical thinking abilities. It's not the only path to enlightenment, but it's certainly an effective one.

Is school necessary?

Now, the perennial question arises: Should we go to school or not? My answer is a resounding "yes." And more specifically, we should send our children to school. Schools aren't just about textbooks and exams; they're about shared experiences. Children have the opportunity to interact with their peers, share stories, and learn from each other. This exposure to diverse perspectives, cultures, and ways of thinking is invaluable. It helps children adapt to different situations and broadens their understanding of the world beyond their immediate surroundings.

But education isn't limited to the classroom. Learning happens everywhere, and sharing experiences is a fundamental aspect of it. Beyond school, I've discovered numerous avenues for shared learning that have contributed significantly to my personal growth. I realized that, and it has turned out to be my prayer every morning, that I need just enough for me and my family for that day.

Mentorship

One such avenue is mentorship. Regardless of your educational background, you can benefit from the wisdom and guidance of experienced individuals. Mentors share practical knowledge and insights, helping us navigate the complexities of life. These mentors, often successful professionals, offer a bridge between formal education and real-world application.

Online communities like this one

In the digital age, shared learning has taken on new dimensions. Online communities, open courses, and e-learning platforms have democratized education. These resources enable anyone to access information and expertise from experts around the world. The knowledge that was once confined to academic institutions is now at our fingertips.

Workplaces

The workplace, too, is a hub for shared learning. Colleagues, supervisors, and work-related challenges provide numerous opportunities for growth. Interactions with diverse coworkers and collaboration on projects can lead to unique insights and skill development. The workplace is a practical learning ground where shared experiences are an integral part of professional development.

In my view, the true synergy lies in embracing both formal education and shared learning. They aren't mutually exclusive; they complement each other beautifully. Formal education provides the foundational knowledge and analytical skills necessary to tackle complex challenges. It equips us with a structured understanding of various subjects, setting the stage for in-depth exploration. However, it's often criticized for its perceived detachment from real-world applications.

That's where shared learning comes into play. It bridges the gap between theory and practice. Mentorship, online communities, and workplace experiences allow us to apply our knowledge in real-life scenarios. They provide the practical dimension that formal education sometimes lacks, enabling us to adapt to new contexts and refine our skills. It's a symbiotic relationship that enriches and deepens our understanding of the world.

My journey in education has led me to appreciate the value of shared learning. Education is not limited to the four walls of a classroom; it's a dynamic and lifelong process. It involves interacting with others, engaging in mentorship, and applying knowledge in practical settings. The traditional concept of education is evolving, recognizing that knowledge is not confined to formal institutions and that personal growth thrives on shared experiences.

Education, whether formal or informal, plays a crucial role in shaping our perspectives, enriching our lives, and preparing us for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Shared learning, with its diverse interactions and practical applications, helps us understand the multifaceted nature of education.

My personal journey, from being perceived as a potential genius to embracing my identity as an average person with a decent hustle, underscores the essence of shared learning. We're all on a continuous path of growth, supported by the collective wisdom and experiences of those around us. By combining the benefits of formal education with the richness of shared learning, we embark on a holistic journey of self-improvement, enriched by the perspectives and insights of others.

Whether employed, unemployed, self-employed or whatever you choose to call yourself, it doesn't matter what is expected of you, but rather what you expect of yourself.