Role of Education in Society

Society has certain requirements which must be met if it’s to survive; hence the role of education in society is examined in terms of how it helps to meet those needs. Firstly, society needs a certain degree of social solidarity or unity. People must feel a sense of belonging to society and a sense of loyalty to the social group. Common norms and values provide this. Secondly, every society requires a system for socializing new members. In an industrial society in which occupational status is largely achieved, young people must learn to value individual achievement. Thirdly, every society requires a system for placing people in roles best suited to their talents and abilities. This is particularly true in industrial society with a specialised division of labour. The right people must be matched with the right jobs. Lastly, for society to operate efficiently and effectively, its members must possess the necessary skills to perform essential tasks. (Harambos et al, 1986)
Education attempts to develop the personality of the pupil and prepare him for membership into society. This function corresponds to the double role a person has to play in life, both as an individual and as a member of society.
Schools in western societies emphasize individual achievement. The student achieves his/ her status based on their ability, talent, determination and effort. Achievement is measured by the student’s performance in examinations. Education can be seen as a system for sifting, sorting and grading people in terms of their ability. Students leave school having been thoroughly tested. In theory, the most talented will achieve the highest qualifications; the least talented will come away with little or nothing to show for their efforts (Harambos et al, 1986)
The vision for the Ministry of Education, Science, Vocation Training and Early Education (MESVTEE) is “to guide the provision of education for all Zambians so that they are able to pursue knowledge and skills, manifest

References: Harambos, M, Smith, F, O’Gorman, J, And Heald, R. (1986), Sociology, A New Approach, London: Causeway Press Ltd | Ministry of Education, (1977), Education Reforms, Proposals and Recommendations, Lusaka: Department of Technical Education and Vocational Training | Ministry of Education, (1996), Educating our future, National Policy on Education, Lusaka: Zambia Education Publishing House | Ministry of Education, (2000), Annual Report, Lusaka: Zambia Education Publishing House | Ottaway, A.K.C (1962), Education And Society, An Introduction To The Sociology of Education, London: Routledge and Kegan Paul |