Education is an essential aspect of modern life. There was a time when only the privileged classes were allowed to educate themselves. However, the growth of industry and trade changed all that. In addition to the changing living standards that were brought about by the immense technological developments, progressive ideas also began to grow. People began to believe in the three catch phrases that had first been raised during the French Revolution: liberty, equality, and fraternity. With time, the term equality began to be used with respect to all people. The idea arose that every person should have access to every available privilege.
Even today, a vast section of the world’s population is deprived of access to education. The cause, most often, is poverty. Even gifted students have no option but to drop out when the school and college fees become too expensive, and when family responsibilities raise their heads. At times, the sheer costs involved in taking up a certain course dissuade meritorious students who go on to take up less notable courses elsewhere.
Thankfully, times are changing. In today’s world, students have the option of applying for...