According to President Thompson, education is essential for cultivating informed, engaged citizens who can participate meaningfully in the democratic process. Through education, individuals gain the critical thinking skills, knowledge, and civic competencies needed to navigate the complexities of modern democracy. They learn to engage with diverse perspectives, analyze information critically, and make informed decisions. These are the very skills that underpin a vibrant, resilient democracy.

President Thompson also highlights the transformative power of education. She notes that education has the ability to transform lives and provide students with the leadership skills needed to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. By empowering individuals through education, we empower them to become active participants in shaping the future of our democracy.

In an era marked by increasing polarization, misinformation, and threats to democratic norms, President Thompson’s message couldn’t be more timely. As she so eloquently argues, education is not just a cornerstone of democracy – it’s the key to advancing it. By investing in education and ensuring that all individuals have access to high-quality learning opportunities, we can build a more informed, engaged, and resilient democracy for generations to come.

President Thompson’s op-ed serves as a powerful reminder of the essential role that education plays in advancing democracy. It’s a call to action for all of us – educators, policymakers, citizens – to prioritize education and work towards creating a more just, equitable, and democratic society. As President Thompson so aptly puts it, education is indeed essential to advancing democracy. Let us heed her wise words and work tirelessly to ensure that education remains a bedrock of our democratic system.