Laurence Mer Acebron
11 - Bl. Peter of Gubbio
TOPIC: PROMOTING QUALITY EDUCATION
Education is an important gift and foundation for self-growth and success. As a student given an invaluable opportunity to expand my knowledge and become a great version of myself, I am most grateful to have access to education, which is considered a privilege. Quality education for me is a basic human right in which each of us should be given equal access to the education we all deserve. As Nelson Mandela said, "Education is a powerful tool/weapon anyone can use to save the world." It is somewhat the backbone of a developing and growing society, showing us the importance of hard work and, at the same time, helping us improve and grow as individuals.
Throughout my life, I’ve heard stories, particularly life stories, about people who struggled and have been deprived of the benefits of education. I once met a little kid when I was in 10th grade during our charity program for Boy Scouts training. His name was Kent, a 10-year-old, and I remember him being a smiling and joyful little boy who would interact with us along with his other friends. Kent would always stick with me as we did our fun activities and games, asking questions about my role as a Boy Scout.
As we engaged in our small conversations, I realized that Kent was full of passion and longing for knowledge and learning. He then shared with me his current situation at home, saying that his mother had just given birth to his fourth sibling and could not send him to school due to financial problems. He said that even his teacher had encouraged and tried to help him, but he decided to help his mother at home so as not to become a burden to the family. Hearing him say this left a pang in my heart, stirring a deep sense of empathy and reflection. It made me think of the harsh realities that many families, especially children, face amidst poverty and lack of education. It made me reflect on the value of education itself and the significance of support networks that allow kids like Kent to reach their full potential despite their circumstances.
This encounter with Kent remains a vivid reminder of how crucial it is to provide quality education to all. It reinforces my belief that education is not only a path to personal development but a stepping stone for the entire society to grow and flourish. If children like Kent are given the tools to learn, their potential could be limitless. Just as I have been fortunate to access opportunities that will help me become the best version of myself, I hope more children across the world can be granted the same opportunity, regardless of their financial circumstances. It is essential for us to recognize that education can empower individuals to change their lives and, in turn, transform their communities.
In summary, education is a vital gift that serves as a foundation for self-growth and success. Inspired by Nelson Mandela's belief in the transformative power of education, I reflect on the stories of those who have been deprived of opportunities, like Kent. His joyful spirit, despite facing significant challenges, highlights the importance of providing quality education for all. This experience deepened my understanding that with the right tools, children can reach their full potential, and I hope that all children are granted the opportunity to access education, empowering them to transform their lives and communities.
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