The process of receiving or giving systematic knowledge at a school or university is called as education. The word “education” is derived from the Latin “Educatus” which means breeding, bringing up or rearing.

Education existed in the earliest pre-history. During the Early Middle Ages, the monasteries of the Roman Catholic Church were the centres of education and literacy. Education was widespread for elite young men in the 18th century with schools in most regions of our country. The subjects taught included Reading, Writing, Theology, Law, Astronomy, Meta Physics, Ethics, Medical Science and Religion. The current system of education, with its western style and content, was introduced and founded by the British during the British Raj, following recommendations by Lord Macaulay.

Aristotle a famous Greek philosopher said, “The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet”. Now-a-days education is compulsory to all people in most countries. Due to population growth and compulsory education, UNESCO has calculated that in the next thirty years more people will receive formal education than in all of human history in the past. Systems of formal education involve Pre School, Primary, Secondary, Tertiary and Vocational education. Pre Schools and Primary education are very important in the formative years of the child. Teachers with special skills and training are needed at this time to nurture the children to develop their potentials.

Secondary and Post-Secondary education occurs mainly during the teenage years. The purpose of this education is to give knowledge or to train directly in a profession. Tertiary education is normally undergraduate and post graduate education. Colleges and Universities are the main institutions that provide tertiary education. Vocational education is often referred to as technical education which develops a trainee expertize in a particular group of techniques.

While speaking about education American President Barack Obama rightly said that, “In an economy where knowledge is the most valuable commodity a person and a country have to offer, the best jobs will go to the best educated whether they live in the United States or India or China”. Education broadens our vision and gives us a better understanding of the world around us. A civilized and structured society is formed on the basis of education. Education helps people to think rationally and avoid illusions in life. Education gives scope for technical advancements in fields of science and technology. Educated people have higher self-esteem and respected everywhere. They have better problem solving skills. Education is a means of reducing poverty in the society.

As Nelson Mandela rightly said, “Education is a powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Brigham Young encourages women’s education by saying that, “You educate a man; you educate a man. You educate a woman; you educate a generation.”

It states clearly that education of women build healthier families. Educated women can recognize the importance of healthcare, family and gain confidence in their lives. The knowledge and empowerment of women can bring about a change in a family and in the society. A person becomes perfect with education not only gains for himself but also he serves the nation. So we must realize the importance of education and ensure that each citizen of our nation is educated and helpful to the society.