Some people think that universities should provide graduates with the knowledge and skills needed in the workplace. Others think that the true function of a university should be to give access to knowledge for its own sake, regardless of whether the course is useful to an employer. What, in your opinion, should be the main function of a university?

It is commonly argued, that
universities
should focus solely on equipping graduates with job-relevant
knowledge
and skills
while
others claim that academic institutions should provide access to
knowledge
irrespective of its practicality in the professional world.
According to
my point of view, higher educational institutions should not only provide
knowledge
and experiences but
also
opportunities for research work and internships.
To begin
with, academic programmes ought to offer a broad range of education, including both theoretical and practical.
Universities
have the responsibility to serve as intellectual hubs by offering interdisciplinary studies, creating an environment where
knowledge
is pursued for its own sake. Theoretical
knowledge
also
enables individuals to acquire a comprehensive understanding of the underlying factors and potential consequences of a phenomenon.
For instance
, medical scholars cannot fully understand the causes of diseases without gaining any non-empirical education before and, respectively, a student pursuing a degree in literature may find value in studying various literary theories, even if they don't directly lead to a specific job. One other essential role of
universities
is to prepare students for the workforce. In today’s competitive job market, employers seek individuals who can apply
knowledge
in real-world settings. Offering internships, collaborating with industries, and providing hands-on experiences, would equip students with the necessary practical expertise.
This
way,
universities
contribute effectively to the workforce after the graduation of their scholars.
For instance
, a chemistry student researching sustainable materials may develop practical solutions for reducing environmental impact in various industries. In conclusion, the primary function of academic institutions should strike a balance between equipping graduates with practical skills for the workplace and simultaneously fostering intellectual curiosity. It is important to recognize that
universities
have a crucial role to play in providing both job-relevant
knowledge
and broader educational experiences.
Submitted by Sonia Kougioni on

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Use cohesive linking words accurately and appropriately

Linking words are very important in your essay.

To score effectively on your IELTS exam, you should make an effort to implement short concise sentences coupled with linking words.

Almost every sentence in your essay should have a linking word of some sort.

In fact, the only sentences that can omit linking words are your background sentence and thesis.

Linking word examples:

  • firstly
  • secondly
  • thirdly
  • in additional
  • moreover
  • also
  • for example
  • for instance
  • therefore
  • however
  • although
  • even though
  • despite

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Essentional vocabulary list for IELTS Writing 7+

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Topic Vocabulary:
  • Lifelong learning
  • Holistic development
  • Vocational training
  • Industry-specific competencies
  • Critical thinking
  • Creative problem-solving
  • Academic research
  • Intellectual development
  • Ethics and values
  • Societal contribution
  • Job market demands
  • Practical training
  • Internships
  • Knowledge advancement
  • Global challenges
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