All forms of education are essential to the development of both human and non-human life. Whether obtained through a formal or informal system, it is a crucial component of production since the global power marketplace is shifting toward a knowledge-based economy rather than one centered around resources. This has been a major factor in the different growth agendas and plans that the government, the organized private sector, and individuals have all had.
One of such agendas is the Sustainable Development Goals, which were agreed on by political and business leaders in 2015 after the inability to realise all the goals and targets of the Millennium Development Goals.
In the global effort of achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which is to provide inclusive and equitable quality education for everyone by 2030, utilitarianism and neoliberalism are intricately interacting. This intersection exposes the market-driven approach to education accessibility and quality, as well as the philanthropic motivations behind delivering education as a fundamental human right.
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SDG 4’s fundamental tenet is the promotion of free, egalitarian, and high-quality education for all children, irrespective of their socioeconomic background or any other discriminating criteria. This aligns with utilitarian values. The focus on making sure all boys and girls finish their primary and secondary school relates to the utilitarian idea of optimizing total well-being by giving everyone access to necessary educational opportunities, which in turn promotes individual growth and society advancement.
However, within the framework of neoliberalism, the nature of education is often viewed through an economic lens, emphasizing market-oriented policies and privatization. This perspective is evident in the goal’s focus on affordability and access to technical, vocational, and higher education, highlighting the importance of education as a means for economic advancement and financial success. While neoliberal principles promote individual choice and competition, they also risk exacerbating inequalities by commodifying education and perpetuating disparities based on wealth and privilege.
The various targets outlined within SDG 4 illustrate the multifaceted challenges facing education systems worldwide, reflecting the complexities of balancing utilitarian ideals with neoliberal realities. For instance, the goal to eliminate gender disparities in education and ensure equal access for vulnerable groups underscores the utilitarian imperative of inclusivity and social justice. Yet, achieving these targets requires confronting neoliberal policies that prioritize profit-driven models and perpetuate systemic inequalities.
Moreover, the emphasis on acquiring relevant skills for employment and entrepreneurship underscores the neoliberal notion of education as a tool for enhancing human capital and market competitiveness. While skill development is essential for economic empowerment, the neoliberal approach may neglect broader educational goals, such as critical thinking, civic engagement, and cultural awareness, which are vital for sustainable development and global citizenship.
A comprehensive strategy that recognizes the importance of education as a basic human right and a driver of socioeconomic development is needed to resolve these conflicts. This means acknowledging the need for innovation, accountability, and efficiency in the delivery of education while also enacting policies that place a priority on equality, social justice, and inclusive education practices.
Our analyst notes that stakeholders can endeavour to realize the transformative potential of education in creating a more equitable, prosperous, and sustainable future for all by carefully and comprehensively managing these contradictions.
