Arguments for compulsory tertiary education often center on:
* Economic benefits: A highly skilled workforce is generally seen as crucial for a thriving economy. Compulsory tertiary education could lead to increased innovation, productivity, and economic growth. This assumes that tertiary education effectively equips individuals with the skills needed by the job market, which isn't always the case.
* Social benefits: Higher education is often linked to better health outcomes, lower crime rates, and increased civic engagement. Wider access to education could lead to a more equitable and informed society. However, this assumes that all forms of tertiary education deliver these benefits equally.
* Individual empowerment: Tertiary education can broaden horizons, foster critical thinking, and empower individuals to make informed life choices. This argument centers on the intrinsic value of education regardless of its economic benefits.
However, there are significant counterarguments:
* Cost: The sheer financial burden of making tertiary education compulsory for everyone would be enormous. Who would pay? Taxpayers? Increased tuition fees? The economic feasibility is a major hurdle.
* Suitability and individual needs: Not everyone is suited to or benefits from the same type of tertiary education. Forcing individuals into a system that doesn't align with their skills or interests could be detrimental. Vocational training and other pathways might be more suitable for some.
* Access and equity: Simply making tertiary education compulsory doesn't guarantee equal access. Disadvantaged groups might still face barriers related to finance, location, and support systems. Compulsory education without addressing these systemic inequalities could worsen existing disparities.
* Defining "Tertiary Education": What constitutes tertiary education? The broad scope encompasses a wide range of programs and quality levels. Mandating participation without quality control mechanisms could result in a devaluation of the qualification itself.
In conclusion, while compulsory tertiary education *could* lead to positive economic and social outcomes, the significant costs and logistical challenges, along with concerns about equity and suitability, make it a highly debatable proposition. A more nuanced approach that focuses on improving access, affordability, and the relevance of tertiary education might be a more effective way to achieve similar goals.