In the near future, we may only study until the age of 20

Life is short, and the working years are even shorter. Within that finite time, people must learn, work, and seek meaning for themselves. In the context of an increasingly developed society, a significant question arises: Should we finish our education before the age of 20, dedicating the remaining time to work and experiences?

This is not a question confined to individuals or a single country; it concerns the operation of all humanity. To answer, we need to consider the meaning of education, the time for work, and how people can effectively use their time to both learn and live a fulfilling life.

Education – The foundation of humanity and an essential industry

Education has long been one of the world's most important industries. It is not just the transmission of knowledge but also significantly contributes to a country's GDP. From schools and universities to supporting industries like educational technology, publishing, and research, education creates economic value and is the basis for societal development.

For example, in countries like the USA and Finland, the education budget accounts for a large portion of public spending. Countries with developed education systems often have a highly productive workforce, contributing positively to the global economy. Therefore, the idea of “ending all formal education before the age of 20” would not only affect individuals but also negatively impact sustainable societal development.

Studying before the age of 20 – Is it enough?

Currently, people not only study before the age of 20, but learning continues throughout life. However, if we enforce the rule that all formal education must end before 20, society will face several issues:

• Outdated knowledge: The world changes rapidly. What is learned before the age of 20 can quickly become outdated as technology and labor markets constantly evolve. A programmer who learned Pascal in the 90s cannot work effectively without updating to Python or AI.
• Immature abilities: Before the age of 20, many are still exploring themselves. This is when they discover their interests, strengths, and potentials. Stopping education at this age may cause humanity to miss out on many talents.
• Limited personal development diversity: A life tied to a single field from an early age can lead to boredom and a lack of creativity. Prolonged education not only develops expertise but also broadens minds, enabling individuals to adapt and innovate in any situation.

Short working life – How to experience multiple fields?

The working years are short, typically only 30-40 years, and not everyone has the opportunity to experience multiple jobs within that time. The issue lies not just in the length of time but also in how we use it.

People cannot excel in a new job immediately. Switching fields or trying a new profession always involves a learning and adaptation period. This requires flexibility from both individuals and organizations. For example, someone who wants to switch from an office job to being a photographer needs time to learn photography skills and build a client network. This process is not easy, but with proper training programs, such transitions are entirely feasible.

How to balance learning and working in a short life?

To solve the issue of time for learning and working, society needs a more flexible education and labor model, where learning is not “cut off” before the age of 20 but is a lifelong journey. Some solutions include:

• Combining learning and working early: The current education system can integrate more practical programs, internships, or real-world projects so that students can approach work while still studying. For example, the "dual education system" in Germany allows students to study theory while working in companies.
• Leveraging the digital age: With technological advancements, learning is no longer limited by space and time. Online courses, open materials, and remote learning tools enable people to learn anytime and anywhere.
• Supporting lifelong learning: Education should not stop after 20 but continue throughout the working life. Short-term training programs, advanced skills courses, or financial support for those who want to return to study are ways to make people more flexible in their careers.
• Changing the mindset about success: Instead of linking success to deep expertise in a single field, society can value diversity and exploration abilities. A person can succeed not only because they reach the pinnacle in one industry but also because they dare to try multiple fields, expanding their knowledge and experiences.

Conclusion: Education has no end

Studying before the age of 20 is important, but it cannot be the endpoint of learning in a person's life. Learning serves not only work but also self-discovery, enhancing thinking, and creating a sustainable society.

Instead of limiting education to a specific phase, we need to build a lifelong learning model – where individuals can learn whenever they need, and society is always ready to support them. In a rapidly changing world, learning is not a burden but a way for people to adapt and move forward. And education – a meaningful industry – will be the driving force to lead humanity into the future.