Lifelong learning: Why Education Must Not Conclude at Higher Education Level

umkt.ac.id, Samarinda - A fundamental question remains: Does our learning journey truly end at graduation? This reflection is more relevant than ever in a society where popular narratives often oversimplify the value of education, reducing it to a mere pursuit of social status or material gain. Furthermore, viral social media trends frequently echo a provocative message: that the education system is a "scam" and no longer relevant to modern life.

These viral narratives reflect an growing pragmatic culture among younger generations—a culture that often devalues perseverance and steady progress in favor of instant results and public attention. Fueled by sensationalized and bite-sized content, social media creates a stark contrast between a result-oriented mentality and the deeper importance of intellectual growth.

For many, this creates a stigma toward formal education, which is deemed too slow to provide the "financial freedom" promised by alternative, quicker paths. However, this perspective overlooks the most vital role of an educational institution: to foster critical reasoning, prepare students for the long-term complexities of life, and instill a profound sense of responsibility and sound judgment.

While social media acts as a powerful catalyst for public opinion, its information flow often prioritizes "appetizing" content over data-driven facts. It is crucial to critically challenge the perception that learning concludes once an academic title is attained.

This is where the concept of lifelong learning becomes essential. It emphasizes a voluntary, continuous process of self-development for professional and social needs. Lifelong learning isn't confined to traditional classrooms; it thrives through informal platforms such as discussions, specialized training, reading, and seminars. By embracing this mindset, we remain adaptive and relevant despite the rapid passage of time.

UNESCO, through its lifelong learning initiatives, encourages the use of information and communication technology to support global empowerment. In today’s evolving job market—driven by technological advancement and the rise of niche professions—lifelong learning is a necessity, not an option. Many essential skills are not fully acquired in college; instead, they are refined through communities, work experience, and ongoing training.

Despite the rise of informal learning, formal education remains the fundamental intellectual bedrock. It provides the essential literacy, analytical, and critical thinking skills required to navigate the world, while offering a platform for character building and networking. Formal and informal education are not mutually exclusive; they are complementary forces that prepare individuals to tackle both present and future challenges.

A diploma is not the finish line; it is the foundation for a much longer journey. The demands of a developing world require us to constantly renew our skills. Many alumni continue to grow through certifications and self-improvement programs, recognizing that creativity, self-reliance, and socio-emotional intelligence are the essential tools of the 21st century.

Creating independent learning habits starts with utilizing digital resources such as MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses), e-learning, and webinars. For alumni, micro-learning and participation in scientific forums serve as platforms for competence renewal.

In this context, Universitas Muhammadiyah Kalimantan Timur (UMKT) plays a strategic role in fostering sustainable learning. Through student and alumni development programs, specialized workshops, and strategic collaborations with the industrial sector, UMKT ensures that its community remains at the forefront of knowledge.

Ultimately, education never concludes. While formal education provides the tools, lifelong learning provides the journey toward comprehensive well-being. Despite the pragmatic narratives trending on social media, we must re-emphasize that education is a long-term investment—not just for the individual, but for the advancement of human civilization.

Author: Raisha Azzahro

Content Translator: M. Rafly Raihandy

Image Source: Freepik