Topic:
Some people think that the best way for
developing countries to eradicate poverty is to provide six years of free education to every child. To what extent do you agree or
disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Several economists opine that one of the most viable solutions to overcome poverty in developing countries is to educate children
for free during their formative years (0-8 years). I partly agree to this notion as education plays a significant role in the
economic growth of a nation.
To initiate, poverty is rampant in developing countries, and several parents who are struggling to make ends meet don´t
bother about sending their child to school. They´d rather make their child do odd jobs befitting their age to contribute to the
family´s earnings. If governments of such nations provide free education to all children for 6 years, then the child can
learn the basics of math, science, languages, etcetera. This may motivate the child to study further while contributing to the
family income. The parents will also get a chance to save money for the child#&180s future education. Once educated,
the child can grow up to earn a proper living thereby contributing to the country#&180s economy. For example, India has several
public schools funded by the government, where they not only provide free primary education to the children but they also provide
mid-day meals to entice the children to attend school.
On the other hand, education becomes futile if there are no job opportunities. Hence, instead of providing free education to
children, governments must utilize the funds to create jobs for both the skilled and unskilled population. Once people start
earning money, their purchasing power will increase and they will create a demand for both goods and services, thereby activating
the manufacturing and services sectors, leading to an improvement in the nation´ts economy and reducing poverty. For example,
if developing nations invite foreign companies to set up manufacturing units in their countries, and employ local people, this
will reduce unemployment and poverty.
Stating the compendium, imparting free education to children for 6 years is a good way to ensure there won´t be complete illiteracy
in the current generation and they can contribute to the future economic growth of a nation, but creating jobs would be a better
way to enable a nation to prosper. (350 words)
