04/12/2026
“Education is a uniquely human privilege. It is the source of inspiration that enables us to become fully and truly human, to fulfill a constructive mission in life with composure and confidence.
When the development of knowledge is isolated from human concerns, it ultimately leads to the creation of weapons of mass destruction. But, at the same time, it is knowledge that has made society comfortable and convenient, bringing industry and wealth. The fundamental task of education must be to ensure that knowledge serves to further the cause of human happiness and peace: it must be the propelling force for an eternally unfolding humanitarian quest.
It is for this reason that I consider education the final and most crucially important undertaking of my life.”
Daisaku Ikeda, founder of Soka University of America
Thoughts on Education for Global Citizenship, Columbia University, June 13, 1996
