In honor of June 12 Democracy day in Nigeria, we examine the interconnection between education and democracy

What is a Democracy?
Democracy is a system of government where the majority prevails. It is the government of the people, by the people and for the people. In a democracy, everything is geared towards improving things for the majority, not for a few.

Education & Democracy
The relationship between education and democracy is evident on many levels. The structure/organization of schools influences the building of the civic society. Classrooms are designed and delivered with instructions that affect the learning and practice of democracy. Classroom elements like questioning, discussions, debates, group work are upstanding pillars of democracy. Education also embraces excellent democratic values like inclusion. At higher levels, students form their own governments with clearly defined roles and separation of power. Also, in a democracy, education gets attention because it is a prerequisite for the survival and success of the former. Democratic governments need to allocate resources to education because it enriches the mind of citizens, enabling them to make rational/analytical decisions. Education has a positive effect on political engagement and participation.

What has been said?
Two quotes embody the synergy between education and democracy. The first is from American philosopher, psychologist, and educational reformer John Dewey. “The devotion of democracy to education is a familiar fact. A government resting upon popular suffrage cannot be successful unless those who govern and obey their governors are educated.” The other is from Irish playwright, critic, polemicist and political activist George Bernard Shaw. He said, “education is the major means to enrich the strengths and overcome the weaknesses of the people. It is also a means for the widespread diffusion of democratic values.” To go further, you can say that a democracy cannot function properly without proper education. Education provides individuals with the range to enjoy democratic values.

In conclusion
Education and democracy uphold each other. Mass education is essential for democracy. Higher levels of education produce a more active and articulate public. An educated public is more likely to hold its government accountable. Education is the great instrument of social emancipation, by which democracy establishes, maintains and protects the spirit of equality among its members.