With the rapid development of a vast array of new technologies, discussions about what the future may hold have taken center stage. We are blessed to witness transformations brought about by technology, but at the same time, we also need to ponder what else humans need in order to survive.
Education is the key to the peaceful development of humankind
In 1945, as Europe and Asia lay in the ruins of World War II, many hoped to find a way to prevent the reoccurrence of such atrocities. It was against this backdrop that the United Nations was born. The spark leading to war starts in the human mind. Fostering mutual respect and understanding, therefore, is the key to peace. In 1946, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was founded to promote cooperation and exchange in education, science, and culture, in hopes of global peace and human welfare.
The concept of education being the key to peaceful existence was widely accepted in the last century. Now, the human race is once again confronted with drastic disruption—this time not from war but from technology. In the face of an uncertain future, education must be re-examined.
Looking to history as inspiration for future education
Renowned 20th-century educator Dr. Maria Montessori survived the devastation of two World Wars and saw hope for peace through education. She dedicated her life to promoting children’s rights and education and was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1949, 1950, and 1951. In 1962, Dr. Montessori founded the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), a non-profit organization, which became a long-term UNESCO partner that continues the fight for children’s rights globally and for life-long learning opportunities for all.
Since the first Montessori school opened its doors in Rome in 1907, the Montessori Method of Education has withstood the test of time and remains highly regarded around the world. In a TV interview, Sergey Brin, co-founder of Google, attributed Google’s success to his early Montessori education in saying, “I think it was part of that training, of not following rules and orders, and being self-motivated and questioning what’s going on in the world, [and] doing things a bit differently.” Thanks to developing the ability to consistently identify and resolve problems in early childhood, Brin helped turn Google from a humble project to improve a library search system into a tech giant that processes over 60,000 search queries every second.
Brin is only one amongst numerous changemakers, whose life was inspired by Montessori education. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Google co-founder Larry Page, SimCity designer Will Wright, Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales, rap mogul Puff Daddy, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and NBA star Steph Curry are just a few notable figures on a long list of Montessori alumi.
In the age of technology, a time when the world is undergoing tremendous change, humanity is our most precious asset. Montessori philosophy, which centers education on the child, in guiding and awakening each person’s inner potential, is more relevant than ever.
Education of today shapes the world of tomorrow
In response to an unpredictable future, a wave of education reforms is sweeping across the world. Education must be the rallying force that unites all members of society. Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, a student, or simply committed to effect change, everyone can make a difference.