Higher-ed cuts misguided

When I tell others that I go to the University of Kentucky, they are surprised by my level of education. The common belief is that Kentucky, as a whole, is uninformed and uncultured. And I am sad to say that with Gov. Matt Bevin’s most recent budget cuts to education, he is perpetuating this gross stereotype.

Education should never be sacrificed. With increasing globalization, it should be clear that we as Kentuckians must stay at the forefront of learning.

As quality jobs are becoming scarce and increasingly competitive, we should not limit education opportunities. Instead, we must increase them. With Bevin’s draconian cutbacks, low socio-economic families will be ensured a life of poverty.

As a biochemistry major, I can safely say that STEM classes are not the solution to everything. Although technological products make our day-to-day lives easier, it is with the liberal arts that life becomes enjoyable. Not only do the arts create diverse and cultured individuals, they also cultivate creativity and innovation.

Cutting Kentucky’s education budget will be disastrous. Jobs will be lost and poverty will rise. I beg Bevin: Do not cut Kentucky’s education budget.

This story was originally published March 3, 2016 at 7:16 PM with the headline "Higher-ed cuts misguided."