As time progresses, the landscape of education evolves. In the past, education heavily relied on teachers at all levels. However, contemporary times highlight the significance of mastering the art of self-learning. It has become evident that individuals adept at self-education possess greater competence than those dependent on traditional teaching methods. Those who excel in self-learning acquire valuable skills and a depth of knowledge that propels them to advanced levels.
In today’s world, numerous individuals hold university degrees, spanning from bachelor’s to doctorate levels. However, possessing degrees does not necessarily equate to the ability to contribute new and groundbreaking knowledge. Many academic works, including master’s and doctoral dissertations, often build upon the research of previous scholars without introducing genuinely innovative ideas, in stark contrast to the groundbreaking contributions of European scientists.
Former US President Donald Trump’s decision to devalue university degrees as job qualifications sent a powerful message. It was not an assertion that students should not pursue education but rather an emphasis on the global need for individuals who can generate new knowledge. The focus shifts from mere academic qualifications to the creation of original insights and contributions.
The existing challenges in education include widespread cheating and forgery of university certificates. For instance, a student studying law in a college teaching in English must truly master the language to earn a degree. This may involve studying in foreign schools or at universities where English is the primary language of instruction.
Given these global challenges, it becomes imperative to implement admission exams to assess competency accurately. The responsibility for education is increasingly shifting to students, emphasizing the need for self-directed learning. Students must cultivate their knowledge, talents, and skills independently to contribute meaningfully to future advancements in various fields.
A critical aspect of this responsibility lies in parental involvement, particularly maternal guidance. In some societies, mothers bear the primary responsibility for supervising, monitoring and directing their children’s education. Unfortunately, in certain Arab societies, cultural norms and a bustling social life often hinder mothers from dedicating sufficient time to their children’s education.
To address these challenges, it is essential to reconsider social norms and adopt practices that align with educational priorities. In Islam, for instance, parents are encouraged to visit their mothers and fathers once a week, but in our society there are daily visits to all relatives and friends. Translating foreign research and publications into various languages is also crucial in nurturing an educated generation capable of establishing a new scientific foundation that benefits humanity as a whole.