Does Education play an essential role in developing an active citizen?

Never in a million years would l doubt the power of education in developing an active citizen. Peter Brougham was definitely right when he stated that, "Education makes a people easy to lead, but difficult to drive; easy to govern, but impossible to enslave." Education has become an awakening tool for citizens to participate in civic processes. The more they learn about their rights and how government policies affect their livelihoods, the more they engage with policymakers on what they desire as citizens. If it wasn't for educated citizens (the independent, responsible, well-informed, critically minded, and empowered citizens), there would not have been any ‘Breaking News Headlines’ of citizen protests, strikes, or uprisings against governments and colonizers. It was those with intellectual strength through the acquisition of knowledge, skills, and virtuous disposition, who saw it right to act against injustice and end civic apathy. Indeed, education has been the driving force of action.


Education is the torch bearer towards emancipation. It allows citizens to be more exposed and engaged in decision making processes which directly affect their well-being; for instance passing a Constitutional Amendment Bill or conducting Presidential elections. Citizens are prompted to analyse, evaluate, defend, and actively contribute towards creating a conducive political, economic, and social environment for themselves. They can better understand the repercussions of their choices, making them accountable for any predicament that befalls them in the future, based on their present actions. All thanks to education. An educated entity is a strong entity.

For ultimate democracy to be achieved, citizens have to be aware of their rights and responsibilities. Such an enlightenment is attained through the provision of information and explanations which allow citizens to participate and be more cognisant of the democratic process. Education, especially to those in marginalised communities, will ensure total inclusion of citizens in the operations of a country. That way, an educated citizen becomes an active citizen.
I certainly agree that education plays a crucial role in developing an active citizen. Without it, citizens would continue to be colonised and exploited due to lack of civic engagement. What do you think?