Guidance for individuals – Guidance for the world

Students at educational institutions are shaping their futures while they acquire knowledge and skills. Yet, their educational and career choices extend beyond the personal impact they imprint on the world at large. This opinion piece challenges a dominant narrative in education that frames education mainly as a tool for personal achievement—aiming for maximum individual freedom, influence, and privileges—rather than as a catalyst for societal change. Drawing on the works of sociologists and educators like Hartmut Rosa and Gert Biesta, we advocate for a shift towards integrating societal values into educational guidance. We propose that guidance professionals encourage students to consider how their educational and career choices can contribute to solving societal challenges. This approach aims to foster a deeper, more resonant relationship with the world, promoting a balance between personal fulfilment and societal contribution. We tackle this issue for the sake of students… and for all of us.