Some people argue that the goal of education is to provide useful individuals for society, while others maintain that education should assist people to achieve their ambitions. Both views hold true to some extent, and I believe educational institutes should cater to both needs in a balanced way.
From the perspective of society, education trains people on job-ready skills in accordance with industries' demand. For example, many higher education institutes have opened new IT courses to cater to tech companies suffering shortage of skilled professionals. Similarly, vocational schools provide practical courses, including cooking, farming and nursing, which are all the target sectors the governments want to protect and develop.
On the other hand, education is a means for individuals to pursue dream and ambitions. Degrees and qualifications are the best stepping stone to the carrer one wants, enhancing future job prospects in line with one's interests. Furthermore, study and reserch themselves quench academic thirsty, leading to deep understanding of the subject. Human beings are the only animal which worry about its life purpose and meanings. Education is able to guide wandering yound minds to move forward.
To summarize, both opinions are valid from different standpoints. One emphasises its contribution to society, while the other values individual's achievement. I think the beauty of education lies in the middle of practicality and personal growth.