Position Paper
Position Paper
Position Paper
11/02/2024
Grade 12 – Benevolence Position Paper
Education is the cornerstone of personal development and societal progress. Over the years, the debate
surrounding the accessibility and cost of higher education has intensified. Many argue for free higher education,
emphasizing its role in promoting equity and fostering economic growth, while others point to the financial burden
it could place on governments and taxpayers. This position paper advocates that higher education should be free
for all, as it is a fundamental right that enhances individual opportunities and drives societal advancement.
Despite some challenges that could be dealt with via systematic planning and policy measures, everybody
should be given free higher education as its benefits promote equal opportunity, drive economic growth, minimize
the student-debt crisis, encourage lifelong learning, and facilitate inclusive and prosperous societies.
Free higher education essentially removes financial barriers to access for disadvantaged groups. Everyone
knows that high tuition fees restrict access to education, especially talented students disadvantaged by structural
poverty and inequality. By eliminating such costs, every person has a level playing field in acquiring knowledge and
is thereby part of contributing to society.
Moreover, for long-time economic benefits, it actually pays back in folded sums in future. A well-educated
population fosters innovation, productivity growth, and global competitiveness among the countries. Higher
education degree holders command more income, become less dependent on social welfare systems, and pay
more taxes. In fact, one's investment in education can yield great returns by way of economic growth.
Getting rid of the student debt crisis is yet another tremendous challenge resolved by free higher
education in countries with expensive educational backgrounds.
Further, free higher education directly relates to lifelong learning, which is crucial to rapidly changing
industries. Ongoing education would enable individuals to adapt to changes in technology and innovation. There
would be no financial restraints in their minds, and they could return to school or study for other qualifications,
thus marking an enhancement in workforce adaptability and competitiveness.
Critics argue that free higher education would strain government budgets or lead to overcrowded
institutions, but these challenges can be addressed. Countries like Germany and Norway have shown that free
education is feasible with proper budget allocation and progressive taxation. Furthermore, strategic policies can
balance enrollment with labor market demands, ensuring quality education and relevant skills training.
In conclusion, free higher education is a transformative policy that ensures equity, drives economic
growth, and fosters social progress. While challenges exist, they can be overcome through strategic planning and
commitment to the principle that education is a fundamental right. By making higher education accessible to all,
societies can unlock the full potential of their citizens and build a brighter, more inclusive future.