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Speech Writing /

2-Minute Speech on Importance of Education in English for Students

Updated on
June 26, 2024

Speech on Importance of Education: Knowledge is power, and education is the ocean of knowledge. Education is a tool that can bring social change to society. A person who does not read books has no advantage over those who cannot. In every culture, education is given great importance because it has the power to enhance personal, economic, and global developments.

Here is what Mahatma Gandhi said about education, ’ By education, I mean an all-round drawing out of the best in the child and man; body, mind, and spirit. True education must correspond to the surrounding circumstances or it is not a healthy growth.’ Can you believe this century-old quote can still be of great significance? This is what we will do for you today. We will provide you with a speech on the importance of education, where we will provide samples and other details on how it can change our lives.

Quick Read: Speech on Earth Day

Table of Contents

1 Sample 1: 2-Minute Speech on Importance of Education
2 Sample 2: 2-Minute Speech on Importance of Education
3 10 Quotes on Importance of Education

‘A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new.’ – Albert Einstein

Master the art of essay writing with our blog on How to Write an Essay in English .

Sample 1: 2-Minute Speech on Importance of Education

‘Good morning my friends and teacher (s). Today, I stand before you to present my ‘Speech on the importance of education’. We all want to progress and grow in our lives. Education is the only weapon that can bring peaceful and sustainable development. Every personal, professional, social, and environmental issue can be solved with an educated mind.

Every society requires educated people for overall development. A society that has more education and civilized people will flourish and sustain better than those who lack education. That is why our government and educational institutions are promoting education.

In earlier times, education was given little importance, as most people were either engaged in agricultural or different manual labour jobs. With the advancement of science and technology, different sectors, like secondary, tertiary, quaternary, and quinary emerged.

Education is the key that unlocks doors of opportunity, enabling individuals to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society. At a personal level, education allows us to understand the world around us. It empowers us to dream big, set goals, and work towards achieving them.

Through education, we can understand our rights and duties towards our families, society and nation. We can explore innovative ideas, as were are constantly involved in learning and growing.

Important people like big industrialists, politicians, movie actors, and even sportspersons are all educated, as they know the importance of education in life. Their contribution is essential for innovation, productivity, and economic competitiveness.

Investing in education is like investing in a future workforce. It ensures that our society remains dynamic and resilient in the face of rapid technological and global changes.

When we talk about social justice and equality, education plays a major role. Education provides equal opportunities for people from different backgrounds. Making education accessible to everyone will help in building a fair and just society, one where talent and potential are recognized.’

Sample 2: 2-Minute Speech on Importance of Education

Good morning to the respected teachers and students,

Education is not simply acquiring knowledge; it is a process that develops our thoughts and broadens our perspectives. It prepares people to pursue their goals, attain them, and live fulfilled lives. Education provides opportunities and helps us to realise our greatest potential. It promotes critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, all of which are useful in both personal and professional situations.

Education is also a successful tool for economic development. It provides the individual with the skills necessary for the job market, enhancing their employability. Education promotes innovation, increases productivity, and improves global competitiveness. It also encourages development by promoting understanding and tolerance among people of different backgrounds. An educated society places a higher importance on justice, equality, and human rights. Education allows us to address social concerns such as poverty, inequality, and corruption.

Education has a wide-ranging impact on health and well-being. People who are educated are more likely to make informed decisions about their health. They are better able to understand healthcare facilities and carry out preventive measures. Despite its importance, providing high-quality education remains a global challenge. Poverty, gender injustice, and a lack of infrastructure prevent millions from getting the education they deserve. As citizens of this country, it is our responsibility to increase awareness so that everyone has access to a quality education.

It will require collaborative efforts from the community and the government. Education is a major driver of personal, economic, and social development. It is the key that unlocks a door full of potential and opportunity. So, let us commit to and work towards a better educated and informed society by making education available to everyone.

Also Read: 2 Minutes Adult Education Speech for School Students

10 Quotes on Importance of Education

Here are 10 quotes on the importance of education. Feel free to add these quotes to your speech or any writing topics.

‘Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.’ – Mahatma Gandhi
‘The great aim of education is not knowledge but action.’ – Herbert Spencer
‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.’ – Nelson Mandela
‘The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.’ – Martin Luther King Jr.
‘Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.’ – Malcolm X
‘An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.’ – Benjamin Franklin
‘The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.’ – B.B. King
‘Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.’ – W.B. Yeats
‘Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.’ – John Dewey
‘The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.’ – Dr. Seuss

Also Read: Speech on Education in English for School Students

Ans: Education is an important tool for social change. Every society requires educated people, who can help in navigating the developmental changes and lead the country to new heights. Education means knowledge and power. Every society requires educated people for overall development. A society that has more education and civilized people will flourish and sustain better than those who lack education. That is why our government and educational institutions are promoting education.

Ans: Education plays an important role in a person’s overall development and life. It can make you a responsible citizen, can offer you a better life, and make you aware of your duty towards society and country. From a personal level to social development, education has the power to change the world and counter every problem hindering developmental activities.

Ans: Literacy and education can be used interchangeably, but there is a big difference in their meaning. A person’s ability to read and write is known as literacy. Education refers to the formal and informal learning experience that a person acquires through personal experience.

Shiva Tyagi

With an experience of over a year, I've developed a passion for writing blogs on wide range of topics. I am mostly inspired from topics related to social and environmental fields, where you come up with a positive outcome.

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6 Speech Examples About Education

In a world where knowledge holds the key to success, education speeches play a crucial role in inspiring and empowering learners of all ages.

A well-written speech can ignite a passion for learning, challenge minds to think critically, and open doors to new possibilities.

Speech Examples About Education

Whether you’re a teacher, student, or advocate for education, these six speech examples will provide you with the guidance and inspiration you need to deliver a powerful message.

So, are you ready to dive into the world of education speeches?

Let’s get started!

A Teacher’s Plea for Education Reform (300 words)

Dear policymakers and fellow educators,

I stand before you today as a passionate teacher who has witnessed firsthand the critical need for education reform in our schools. For too long, we have focused on test scores and standardized assessments, neglecting the true essence of learning. It’s time we shift our priorities and invest in the holistic development of our students.

Education is not about memorizing facts and figures; it’s about nurturing curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love for learning. We must create an environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and collaboration. By doing so, we empower our students to become active participants in their own education and equip them with the skills they need to thrive in the 21st century.

I urge you to support initiatives that prioritize student-centered learning, project-based curricula, and personalized instruction. Let us work together to provide our students with the resources, support, and guidance they need to reach their full potential. The future of our society depends on the quality of education we provide today.

— END OF SPEECH —

Commentary: This short speech is a passionate plea from a teacher advocating for education reform. It emphasizes the importance of shifting focus from standardized tests to holistic student development. The speech is suitable for education conferences, school board meetings, or any gathering of educators and policymakers.

The Power of Education in Transforming Lives (500 words)

Ladies and gentlemen,

Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world. These words, spoken by the late Nelson Mandela, ring true today more than ever. Education has the power to transform lives, break the cycle of poverty, and create a brighter future for generations to come.

I stand before you as a testament to the transformative power of education. Growing up in a disadvantaged community, I witnessed firsthand the struggles and limitations faced by those without access to quality education. But I was fortunate enough to have parents who understood the value of learning and sacrificed everything to ensure I had the opportunity to pursue my dreams.

Through education, I discovered a world beyond the confines of my neighborhood. I learned to think critically, to question the status quo, and to believe in myself. Education opened doors that I never knew existed and provided me with the tools to overcome obstacles and achieve success.

But my story is not unique. Countless individuals have experienced the life-changing impact of education. It is through education that we can break down barriers, promote social mobility, and create a more just and equitable society. By investing in education, we invest in the future of our communities, our nation, and our world.

However, the journey towards universal access to quality education is far from over. Millions of children around the globe still lack the opportunity to learn and reach their full potential. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that every child, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to the transformative power of education.

So, I challenge you today to become advocates for education. Support initiatives that promote access to quality learning opportunities, champion policies that prioritize education funding, and volunteer your time and resources to organizations working towards educational equity. Together, we can create a world where every child has the chance to learn, grow, and thrive.

Remember, education is not a luxury; it is a fundamental human right. Let us work together to ensure that this right is extended to all.

Commentary: This medium-length speech highlights the transformative power of education in changing lives and creating a better society. The speaker shares a personal story to emphasize the impact of education and calls upon the audience to become advocates for educational equity. This speech is suitable for school assemblies, community events, or fundraisers focused on education initiatives.

Embracing Diversity in Education (700 words)

Good morning, everyone.

Today, I want to talk about a crucial aspect of education that often goes overlooked: the importance of embracing diversity in our schools and classrooms. In a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected and globalized, it is essential that we prepare our students to navigate a diverse and multicultural society.

Diversity in education goes beyond the mere representation of different ethnicities, cultures, and backgrounds. It encompasses a wide range of perspectives, experiences, and ways of thinking. By embracing diversity in our educational institutions, we create an environment that fosters inclusivity, empathy, and understanding.

When students are exposed to diverse perspectives and ideas, they develop critical thinking skills and learn to appreciate different viewpoints. They begin to understand that there is no single “right” way of looking at the world and that our differences can be a source of strength and innovation. This exposure prepares them to become global citizens who can effectively collaborate and communicate with people from all walks of life.

Moreover, embracing diversity in education helps to break down stereotypes and prejudices. When students interact with peers from different backgrounds, they learn to see beyond labels and recognize the common humanity that unites us all. This understanding is crucial in combating discrimination and promoting social cohesion in our communities.

However, embracing diversity in education is not without its challenges. It requires a concerted effort from educators, administrators, and policymakers to create inclusive learning environments that cater to the needs of all students. This includes providing culturally responsive curricula, recruiting diverse teaching staff, and addressing systemic barriers that may hinder the success of marginalized students.

It is also essential that we engage in ongoing conversations about diversity and inclusion in our schools. We must create safe spaces for students to share their experiences, ask questions, and learn from one another. By fostering open and honest dialogue, we can build bridges of understanding and create a more inclusive educational landscape.

As educators, we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to shape the minds and hearts of the next generation. By embracing diversity in our classrooms, we not only enrich the educational experience of our students but also contribute to building a more just and equitable society.

So, I challenge you today to reflect on how you can actively promote diversity and inclusion in your own educational practices. Whether it’s through incorporating diverse perspectives into your lessons, creating opportunities for cross-cultural exchange, or advocating for policies that support marginalized students, every action counts.

Let us remember that education is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about empowering individuals to become agents of change in their communities and the world at large. By embracing diversity in education, we can inspire a generation of leaders who value empathy, understanding, and inclusivity.

Commentary: This long speech emphasizes the importance of embracing diversity in education. It highlights the benefits of exposing students to diverse perspectives, breaking down stereotypes, and promoting social cohesion. The speech also acknowledges the challenges and calls upon educators to actively promote diversity and inclusion in their practices. This speech is suitable for teacher training sessions, education conferences, or school diversity initiatives.

Education as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development (1000 words)

Distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, and fellow advocates for education,

It is an honor to stand before you today to discuss a topic that lies at the heart of our collective future: education as a catalyst for sustainable development. In a world facing unprecedented challenges, from climate change to social inequality, education holds the key to unlocking the potential of individuals and communities to create a more sustainable and equitable future.

The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) recognize education as a fundamental human right and a crucial driver of progress across all dimensions of sustainable development. Quality education empowers individuals with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to make informed decisions, participate actively in society, and contribute to the well-being of their communities and the planet as a whole.

However, the reality is that millions of children and youth around the world still lack access to quality education. According to UNESCO, 258 million children and youth were out of school in 2018, and over 617 million children and adolescents were not achieving minimum proficiency levels in reading and mathematics. This educational divide not only perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality but also hinders our collective ability to address global challenges and achieve sustainable development.

To harness the transformative power of education for sustainable development, we must take bold and urgent action. First and foremost, we must ensure that every child, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to quality education. This requires investing in education infrastructure, recruiting and training qualified teachers, and providing learning materials and resources that are relevant, engaging, and culturally responsive.

But access alone is not enough. We must also focus on the quality and relevance of education to prepare learners for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. This means integrating sustainability principles and practices into curricula across all subjects and levels of education. From early childhood to higher education, learners should be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to become responsible global citizens and agents of change.

Moreover, education for sustainable development must go beyond the classroom walls and engage learners in real-world problem-solving and community action. Through project-based learning, service-learning, and community engagement, students can apply their knowledge and skills to address local and global challenges, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and social inequality. By connecting learning to real-world contexts, we can foster a sense of agency, empowerment, and responsibility among learners to become active participants in shaping a more sustainable future.

To achieve these goals, we need a whole-of-society approach that brings together governments, civil society, the private sector, and international organizations. We must forge partnerships and collaborate across sectors to mobilize resources, share knowledge, and scale up effective practices. This includes investing in research and innovation to develop new pedagogies, technologies, and assessment methods that support education for sustainable development.

Furthermore, we must recognize and value the role of indigenous knowledge systems and traditional practices in promoting sustainability. By integrating indigenous perspectives and ways of knowing into education, we can foster a more holistic and culturally responsive approach to sustainable development that respects the diversity of human experiences and relationships with the natural world.

As we look to the future, we must also consider the role of lifelong learning in supporting sustainable development. In a rapidly changing world, education cannot end with formal schooling. We must create opportunities for continuous learning and skills development throughout life, enabling individuals to adapt to new challenges and opportunities and contribute to the ongoing process of sustainable development.

In conclusion, education is not just a means to an end but an end in itself. It is a fundamental human right and a powerful tool for empowerment, social transformation, and sustainable development. By harnessing the transformative power of education, we can create a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world for all.

So, let us recommit ourselves to the cause of education for sustainable development. Let us work together to ensure that every child, youth, and adult has access to quality learning opportunities that prepare them to become responsible global citizens and agents of change. Let us invest in the power of education to unlock the potential of individuals and communities to create a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

Commentary: This lengthy speech positions education as a catalyst for sustainable development, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. It emphasizes the need for access to quality education, the integration of sustainability principles into curricula, and the importance of real-world problem-solving and community engagement. The speech calls for a whole-of-society approach and lifelong learning to support sustainable development. This speech is suitable for international education conferences, sustainability forums, or high-level policy discussions.

The Future of Education: Embracing Technology and Innovation (300 words)

The world is changing at an unprecedented pace, and education must keep up with these transformations. As we look to the future of education, it is clear that technology and innovation will play a crucial role in shaping how we teach and learn.

The rapid advancement of digital technologies has opened up new possibilities for personalized learning, collaborative environments, and global connectivity. By embracing these tools, we can create educational experiences that are more engaging, interactive, and relevant to the needs of 21st-century learners.

However, integrating technology into education is not about replacing teachers with machines. It’s about empowering educators with the tools and resources they need to enhance their teaching practices and better support student learning. By leveraging data analytics, adaptive learning platforms, and immersive technologies, teachers can gain insights into student progress, provide targeted feedback, and create more inclusive and accessible learning environments.

Moreover, technology can help bridge the digital divide and expand access to education for underserved communities. Through online learning platforms, open educational resources, and mobile technologies, we can reach learners in remote areas, provide flexible learning options for working professionals, and offer lifelong learning opportunities for all.

As we embrace technology and innovation in education, we must also ensure that we are preparing students for the future of work. This means fostering the development of critical skills such as creativity, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving. By integrating these skills into our curricula and assessments, we can equip students with the competencies they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

The future of education is bright, but it requires a collective effort from educators, policymakers, and industry partners to realize its full potential. Let us work together to create a more innovative, inclusive, and future-ready education system that empowers learners to thrive in the digital age.

Commentary: This short speech focuses on the role of technology and innovation in shaping the future of education. It highlights the potential of digital technologies to personalize learning, enhance teaching practices, and expand access to education. The speech also emphasizes the importance of preparing students for the future of work by fostering critical skills. This speech is suitable for education technology conferences, school board meetings, or professional development workshops for educators.

The Importance of Lifelong Learning in a Changing World (500 words)

Dear friends and colleagues,

In today’s rapidly changing world, the concept of lifelong learning has never been more relevant or important. Gone are the days when education was confined to the walls of a classroom or the pages of a textbook. In the 21st century, learning has become a continuous and dynamic process that extends throughout our lives.

The pace of technological advancement, globalization, and social change has made it imperative for individuals to continually update their skills, knowledge, and competencies to remain relevant and adaptable in the workforce and society at large. The jobs of tomorrow may not even exist today, and the skills we acquire in our youth may become obsolete within a matter of years.

This is where lifelong learning comes in. By embracing a mindset of continuous growth and development, we can navigate the uncertainties of the future with greater resilience and agility. Lifelong learning empowers us to take control of our own personal and professional development, to explore new interests and passions, and to contribute meaningfully to our communities and the world around us.

But lifelong learning is not just about acquiring new skills or knowledge. It’s also about cultivating a curious and open mindset, a willingness to step outside our comfort zones, and a commitment to personal and societal growth. It’s about recognizing that learning is not a destination but a journey, and that the process of discovery and growth is just as valuable as the outcomes.

To foster a culture of lifelong learning, we must create opportunities and support systems that enable individuals to pursue their learning goals throughout their lives. This includes investing in adult education programs, promoting workplace learning and development, and creating accessible and flexible learning pathways that cater to diverse needs and circumstances.

Moreover, we must recognize and value the many forms that learning can take, from formal education to informal and experiential learning. Whether it’s through online courses, mentorship programs, community initiatives, or personal projects, there are countless ways to engage in meaningful learning experiences that enrich our lives and contribute to the greater good.

As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, let us embrace the power of lifelong learning to transform ourselves and the world around us. Let us cultivate a growth mindset, a curiosity for the unknown, and a commitment to continuous development. And let us work together to create a society that values and supports learning in all its forms, throughout all stages of life.

Remember, it’s never too late to learn something new, to discover a hidden talent, or to make a positive impact in the world. So, let us seize the opportunities that lifelong learning presents and embark on a journey of growth, discovery, and transformation.

Commentary: This medium-length speech emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning in a rapidly changing world. It highlights the need for individuals to continuously update their skills and knowledge to remain adaptable and resilient. The speech also calls for creating opportunities and support systems to foster a culture of lifelong learning, recognizing the diverse forms that learning can take. This speech is suitable for adult education conferences, professional development workshops, or community events focused on personal growth and development.

Education speeches have the power to inspire, motivate, and empower learners of all ages.

Whether you’re advocating for education reform, celebrating the transformative power of learning, or envisioning the future of education, your words can make a lasting impact on your audience.

By writing speeches that are engaging, relevant, and thought-provoking, you can spark conversations, challenge assumptions, and galvanize action towards a more equitable and empowering education system.

So, go forth and use your voice to champion the cause of education, for the future of our society depends on the quality of learning we provide today.

Speeches > James D. Gordon III > The Joy of Education and Lifelong Learning

The Joy of Education and Lifelong Learning

James d. gordon iii.

March 15, 2013

There are so many opportunities for lifelong learning. If we do our best and seek Heavenly Father’s help, He will strengthen us beyond our natural abilities and help us to learn.

I am happy to be here with you today. I remember when I was a university student. Like some of you, I had trouble deciding what my major should be. First I thought about majoring in economics. That way, if I couldn’t get a job after I graduated, at least I would understand why.

Then I thought I might major in physical education. I went down to the gym to lift weights, but the laughter made it difficult to concentrate.

I sampled some classes, but I didn’t always do very well. For example, I took a photography class. I just about went crazy trying to take a close-up of the horizon. The teacher in that class gave me an F minus. He said that giving me an F would be unfair to the people who failed normally.

I studied chemistry, but I thought that there were only four elements on the periodic table: earth, air, fire, and water. I thought that fire had three electrons in the outer shell.

I thought about studying math. It has been reported that 60 percent of Americans cannot do basic math. Sixty percent! That’s nearly half! But we shouldn’t laugh—and most of you didn’t, and I appreciate that.

Seek Learning

Seriously, I would like to speak about the joy of education and lifelong learning. Life is a test, and life is also a school. The Lord has invited us to seek learning. He said, “Seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith.” 2 He commanded early Church leaders to “study and learn, and become acquainted with all good books, and with languages, tongues, and people.” 3

Three reasons why we should learn are to develop personally, to increase our ability to serve others, and to be prepared in all things. Brigham Young said, “Our education should be such as to improve our minds and fit us for increased usefulness; to make us of greater service to the human family.” 4

President Thomas S. Monson taught:

Your talents will expand as you study and learn. You will be able to better assist your families in their learning, and you will have peace of mind in knowing that you have prepared yourself for the eventualities that you may encounter in life. 5

Learning helps us to be prepared in all things. The Lord said:

Teach ye diligently and my grace shall attend you, that you may be instructed more perfectly in theory, in principle, in doctrine, in the law of the gospel, in all things that pertain unto the kingdom of God, that are expedient for you to understand;

Of things both in heaven and in the earth, and under the earth; things which have been, things which are, things which must shortly come to pass; things which are at home, things which are abroad; the wars and the perplexities of the nations, and the judgments which are on the land; and a knowledge also of countries and of kingdoms—

That ye may be prepared in all things when I shall send you again to magnify the calling whereunto I have called you, and the mission with which I have commissioned you. 6

Being prepared in all things includes being prepared for the world of work so that you can provide for yourself and your family.

It is a great privilege to study at Brigham Young University. You have the opportunity to learn in an environment that is consistent with the principles of the gospel. Being a student here is a position of trust. As you know, the Church pays for much of your education. You have the responsibility to study hard, to obey the Honor Code, and to prepare for future service. Hopefully throughout your life you will look back on your time here with fondness and cherish the memories.

On Pursuing a BYU Education

I would like to offer some advice as you pursue your education here. I hope that I don’t sound like Polonius giving advice to Laertes in Shakespeare’s play Hamlet— especially when I remember what happened to Polonius. I am not referring to the fact that he was killed behind the arras, but rather to the fact that over the centuries he has been portrayed by literally thousands of bad actors.

First, do your best in school. You might recall a story about a person who was asked to build a house. He decided to cut corners, use cheap materials, and do a poor job. When he was done, the owner handed him the key and said, “I’d like to give you this house as a gift.”

Attending the university is like that. You can work hard and do a good job, or you can cut cor-ners and do a poor job. Be fair with yourself by giving your best effort. I encourage you to work diligently, to learn a lot, and to prepare well for the future.

Second, do things to enrich your education, such as having a mentored-learning experience with a faculty member, publishing an article, doing an internship, working in BYUSA, or participating in a student club. Perhaps you can be a teaching assistant or a research assistant or participate in a performing group. BYU offers so many opportunities to develop and grow. When you look back on your education here, these extra activities will have special meaning.

You might participate in intramural sports. Personally, I’m not very athletic. I tell my students that I played football in high school. They had a play designed especially for me. It was called “Pencilneck Right.” You know how BYU uses the run to set up the pass? Well, Pencilneck Right was used to set up the injury timeout.

When I was in high school I was in the chess club. I tell my students that I had a rook on my letterman jacket. Do you know what it says when you walk around campus with a rook on your letterman jacket? “Don’t mess with me, pal. Checkmate!”

Third, give service. It is important to fulfill Church callings and to perform other service. Y-Serve, the Center for Service and Learning, located in the Wilkinson Student Center, offers many opportunities to serve in the community. Service is important for its own sake, and it helps you to keep a broader perspective and to stay balanced.

Fourth, make friends. Even though your classmates are not as good-looking—and not as humble—as you are, they are bright, good, and interesting people. The friendships you make here can last throughout your whole life and can be a particularly sweet aspect of your university experience. Take time to make friends.

When I was in high school I didn’t have many friends. Once I told my dad that the other kids were giving me a hard time about my religion. My father sat down next to me, and, in his fatherly way, he said, “Son, it doesn’t matter what race you are or what religion you are. There will always be people who don’t like you—because you’re irritating.”

Fifth, attend devotional and forum addresses and other events, such as academic presentations, concerts, plays, and art exhibits. These are wonderful opportunities.

Sixth, enjoy your university education. It’s exciting, fascinating, challenging, and fun. The secret to happiness is not to look forward to some future time when all your problems will be solved. The secret is to be happy today.

The Joy and Sweetness of Lifelong Learning

There is joy in learning. In some Hebrew schools a special ceremony occurs on the first day of class. The teacher places a drop of honey on the cover of a book and gives the book to the student, who licks the honey off. The symbolic message is that learning is sweet.

Learning can also be challenging. Sometimes the learning curve is steep. When we are acquiring new knowledge or skills, we may feel uncertain, and we may make mistakes. However, being stretched means that we are growing. If we ask Heavenly Father in prayer, He will increase our ability to learn and help us to overcome our challenges.

Hopefully your university education will provide a foundation for lifelong learning. As The Aims of a BYU Education describes:

BYU should inspire students to keep alive their curiosity and prepare them to continue learning throughout their lives. BYU should produce careful readers, prayerful thinkers, and active participants in solving family, professional, religious, and social problems. . . . Thus a BYU diploma is a beginning, not an end, pointing the way to a habit of constant learning. In an era of rapid changes in technology and information, the knowledge and skills learned this year may require renewal the next. Therefore, a BYU degree should educate students in how to learn, teach them that there is much still to learn, and implant in them a love of learning “by study and also by faith.” 7

The most important area of lifelong learning is spiritual learning. We seek answers through prayer. We read the scriptures regularly so that they become part of our lives. Reading the scriptures reminds us of the Lord’s commandments, the covenants that we have made to keep them, and the blessings of the gospel. Studying the scriptures also invites the Holy Ghost, who guides our decisions and helps us to learn. Elder Russell M. Nelson said: “Faith is nurtured through knowledge of God. It comes from prayer and feasting upon the words of Christ through diligent study of the scriptures.” 8

Regardless of one’s opportunities for formal education, a person can engage in lifelong learning. My grandfather was Jim Gordon. His parents were Scottish immigrants. He was only able to finish the eighth grade before he went to work. He drove a delivery wagon in San Francisco when he was a young man.

Automobiles replaced horse-drawn wagons. Later my grandfather became a mechanic. He brought books about diesel engines home from work, and he read them. Eventually he became the supervisor over all the diesel equipment for a substantial company. Although his opportunity for formal education was limited, he kept learning on his own. His most important learning experiences occurred when, later in life, he decided to enter the waters of baptism and to receive the blessings of the temple.

When my grandfather was young, he drove a horse-drawn wagon. However, his world changed. During his lifetime he flew in passenger planes, and astronauts landed on the moon. Your world will change too. Many of the changes will be positive and exciting; others may present challenges. Will you be prepared to meet the challenges that will arise during your lifetime?

We need to continue to learn throughout our lives. President Gordon B. Hinckley told graduating BYU students:

We live in a world where knowledge is developing at an ever-accelerating rate. Drink deeply from this ever-springing well of wisdom and human experience. If you should stop now, you will only stunt your intellectual and spiritual growth. Keep everlastingly at it. Read. Read. Read. Read the word of God in sacred books of scripture. Read from the great literature of the ages. Read what is being said in our day and time and what will be said in the future. 9

Personally, I love to read. I tell my students that my first job was as a proofreader in an M&M factory. You have your own patterns for reading. One thing that helps me is that my wife, Nadine, and I belong to a book group with some friends. During the school year we meet almost monthly. We take turns: a couple chooses a book, hosts the book group in their home, leads the discussion, and serves refreshments afterward. We have read books about a wide variety of subjects. I had never even heard of many of these books before, but I have enjoyed reading them very much.

In addition, I have always enjoyed words. When I was a boy and I would encounter a word I didn’t know, sometimes I would ask my father what it meant. He would reply, “Look it up.” My father usually knew the answer, but he wanted me to learn how to look words up. So I would open the dictionary that sat on the bookshelf in our living room and look the word up.

Later I wanted to learn more words. One summer my friend John Tanner (who later became a BYU English professor) and I worked as groundskeepers at the Oakland California Temple. On some days we would each write five words and their definitions on an index card and put the card in our shirt pocket. Then we would share the words and use them in sentences during the day. My favorite word from that summer was halcyon. It means calm, peaceful, tranquil, or golden. As we pulled weeds and performed other physical labor on the beautiful temple grounds, we would exclaim, “Oh, those halcyon days of youth!” Now, as I look back, I see that they really were halcyon days.

In our busy lives, how can we make time to continue learning? I believe in consistent, incremental progress—small steps over time. For example, one doesn’t learn to play the piano in a single day. One must practice daily for several years. After many small increments, one can eventually play hymns, popular songs, or classical music. Lifelong learning is like that. We need to schedule some time each day to study the scriptures. We can also regularly read a little in other books. We learn “line upon line” and “precept upon precept.” 10

Elder Dallin H. Oaks and Sister Kristen M. Oaks wrote:

There are few things more fulfilling and fun than learning something new. Great happiness, satisfaction, and financial rewards come from this. An education is not limited to formal study. Lifelong learning can increase our ability to appreciate and relish the workings and beauty of the world around us. This kind of learning goes well beyond books and a selective use of new technology, such as the Internet. It includes artistic endeavors. It also includes experiences with people and places: conversations with friends, visits to museums and concerts, and opportunities for service. We should expand ourselves and enjoy the journey. 11

Two Stumbling Blocks of Learning

There are two issues connected with learning about which we must be careful. First, learning can lead to pride. In 2 Nephi Jacob wrote:

O that cunning plan of the evil one! O the vainness, and the frailties, and the foolishness of men! When they are learned they think they are wise, and they hearken not unto the counsel of God, for they set it aside, supposing they know of themselves, wherefore, their wisdom is foolishness and it profiteth them not. And they shall perish.

But to be learned is good if they hearken unto the counsels of God. 12

President Ezra Taft Benson taught:

Pride is the universal sin, the great vice. . . .

The antidote for pride is humility—meekness, submissiveness. (See Alma 7:23.) It is the broken heart and contrite spirit. 13

Humility opens our hearts and minds to learning. By contrast, thinking that we already know everything impedes our learning. King Benjamin taught that a person needs to become “as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father.” 14

Second, we should expect that at times apparent conflicts may arise between secular learning and gospel principles. “[T]he gospel encompasses all truth.” 15 At the groundbreaking of the BYU Eyring Science Center in 1948, President George Albert Smith said:

I want to say that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints accepts all that is true in the world from whatever source it may come, with the knowledge that it originated with the greatest of all scientists, our Father in Heaven. . . .

And so I congratulate the students of this great institution [BYU] to think that you have all the advantages that the people of the world have, plus the advantages of faith in God, a belief in the power of our Heavenly Father, and His inspiration. 16

The Aims of a BYU Education states:

Students need not ignore difficult and important questions. Rather, they should frame their questions in prayerful, faithful ways, leading them to answers that equip them to give “a reason of the hope that is in” them (1 Peter 3:15) and to articulate honestly and thoughtfully their commitments to Christ and to His Church. 17

When human knowledge and the gospel appear to conflict, we should remember that human knowledge is limited. Eternal truth is not limited, but our understanding of it is incomplete. After this life, if we are worthy, we will understand all truth. Meanwhile, we seek answers to faithful questions. We study, ponder, pray, and have patience. We exercise faith in God. He blesses us with greater knowledge, understanding, and peace in our lives.

We should be humble about what we know and what we do not know. An angel appeared to Nephi. Nephi wrote:

And he said unto me: Knowest thou the condescension of God?

And I said unto him: I know that he loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things. 18

We do not know the meaning of all things, but we do know that God loves His children.

God’s wisdom supersedes human knowledge. Elder Oaks wrote:

We are commanded to seek learning by study, the way of reason, and by faith, the way that relies on revelation. Both are pleasing to God. He uses both ways to reveal light and knowledge to his children. But when it comes to a knowledge of God and the principles of his gospel, we must give primacy to revelation because that is the Lord’s way. 19

We should also remember to put the gospel, not our academic discipline, first in our lives. Jesus said, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” 20

The Strength in Learning

This is a wonderful time to be on the earth. There are so many opportunities for lifelong learning. If we do our best and seek Heavenly Father’s help, He will strengthen us beyond our natural abilities and help us to learn. That learning will enable us to develop personally, will increase our ability to serve others, and will help us to be prepared in all things.

I testify that the gospel is true. Heavenly Father lives and loves us, and Jesus Christ is the Son of God, the Savior of the world. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

1. Marion B. and Rulon A. Earl Professor of Law, J. Reuben Clark Law School, Brigham Young University. Apologies and thanks to Johnny Carson, Jay Leno, Steven Wright, and others.

2. D&C 88:118.

3. D&C 90:15.

4. JD 14:83.

5. Thomas S. Monson, “Three Goals to Guide You,” Ensign, November 2007, 119.

6. D&C 88:78–80.

7. The Mission of Brigham Young University and The Aims of a BYU Education (Provo: BYU, 1996), 12.

8. Russell M. Nelson, “With God Nothing Shall Be Impossible,” Ensign, May 1988, 34.

9. Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Three-Point Challenge,” BYU commencement address, 27 April 1995; excerpt in TGBH, 171.

10. D&C 98:12; 2 Nephi 28:30.

11. Dallin H. Oaks and Kristen M. Oaks, “Learning and Latter-day Saints,” Ensign, April 2009, 27.

12. 2 Nephi 9:28–29.

13. Ezra Taft Benson, “Beware of Pride,” Ensign, May 1989, 6.

14. Mosiah 3:19.

15. Elder Cecil O. Samuelson Jr. on Elder Neal A. Maxwell’s views, quoted in Bruce C. Hafen, A Disciple’s Life: The Biography of Neal A. Maxwell (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2002), 167; see also Henry Eyring, quoted in Henry J. Eyring, Mormon Scientist: The Life and Faith of Henry Eyring (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2007), 60.

16. George Albert Smith, “Address at Ground Breaking Ceremonies for the Physical Science Building at Brigham Young University,” 11 May 1948, 2, 4; this quotation is posted on the fifth floor of the BYU Harold B. Lee Library.

17. The Aims, 4.

18. 1 Nephi 11:16–17.

19. Dallin H. Oaks, The Lord’s Way (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1991), 72.

20. 3 Nephi 13:33.

James D. Gordon III1 was assistant to the president for planning and assessment and a professor of law at BYU when this devotional address was given on 26 March 2013.

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