The Advantages of Free Tertiary Education: A Pathway to Sustainable Development

By, Mahmud Hambali Zamzam

A well-educated population is a cornerstone of economic growth and social progress. Free tertiary education plays a pivotal role in equipping individuals with advanced skills, fostering innovation, and reducing inequalities. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all this initiative not only empowers individuals but also strengthens nations.  

Free tertiary education significantly contributes to building a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of modern industries such as technology, engineering, and healthcare. Countries like Germany and Norway, which have implemented free higher education, demonstrate how removing financial barriers ensures a steady supply of qualified professionals (OECD, 2022). Research by Psacharopoulos & Patrinos in 2018, indicates that each additional year of schooling boosts individual earnings by 10 percent and national GDP growth by 0.37 percent. By broadening access to education, nations can reduce unemployment and achieve long-term economic stability.  

An educated populace drives technological advancements and entrepreneurial ventures, enhancing a country’s global competitiveness. Nations with high education accessibility consistently rank well in global innovation indices reports the World Bank in 2021. Free tertiary education aligns with SDG 4 by ensuring that talent and creativity are nurtured, regardless of socioeconomic background, paving the way for groundbreaking solutions to challenges like climate change and public health crises.  

Beyond economic gains, free tertiary education reduces social costs by lowering crime rates, improving public health, and decreasing reliance on welfare programs. It breaks the cycle of poverty, enabling disadvantaged students to pursue higher education without the burden of debt, reports the World Bank in 2020. This initiative fosters civic engagement and democratic values, creating a more inclusive and cohesive society reports UNESCO in 2019.  

In Islam, education is revered as a form of sadaqah jariyah (continuous charity), benefiting individuals and communities alike. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) emphasized the importance of seeking knowledge, stating it as a path to both worldly success and the hereafter. This underscores the universal value of education as a tool for societal transformation.  

Free tertiary education is not merely a policy but a strategic investment in a nation’s future. It aligns with SDG4 by promoting equity, economic growth, and social progress. Governments and policymakers must prioritize sustainable financing models and international collaborations to make this vision a reality. As nations with educated populations thrive in innovation and resilience, the long-term benefits of free tertiary education far outweigh the initial costs.***