By Matshidiso Makhalanyane   Do we really need education? The answer is pretty simple. Basic education is the start of a long, challenging and yet a fruitful journey. It is a right; however, higher education is a privilege, not a right. Every child has the right to an early education according to the constitution. Having to work hard towards tertiary and qualifying to certain requirements is what makes higher education more of a privilege than a right. Are people still interested in study further and being different? Is it worth it?  One would ask. With ongoing financial strikes affect institutions of higher education, some would think studying further isn`t necessary after all. Having to focus on studying and stressing over how you are going to finance your studies isn`t something anyone would want to experience. However, we need further education and training in order for our lives to improve. Education is the key to success, a spear of life. With education, we are able to fight hunger and poverty. Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Education opens many doors for those who work hard and are dedicated. One is able to weigh their options when choosing their dream careers. Many decent jobs in the world require a proper tertiary training. “The function of education is to teach on to think critically. Intelligence plus character-that is the goal of true education.” Martin Luther King, Jr. A number of institutions of higher education in South African have been fighting for a better education for all, including Tshwane University of Technology students, which were recently protesting for “a better future for themselves.” Is education worth it and really possible? Is striking a better solution to our problems? “The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet.” Aristotle. Let’s all stand for what we believe in, educating one another.