在我看来，教育的首要目的是让个体的个性得以充分发展，通过个性的全面发展，个人抱负得以实现。在追求个人志向过程中，个体对他人以及社会都会产生积极的影响，最终，一个个不同的个体的才智得以充分发挥，从而也让整个社会受益。

Sample Answer

The discussion about the purpose of education has been going on for literally thousands of years, but no conclusions have been drawn. Basically, there are two viewpoints about the primary goal of education. One is to achieve individual's ambition and the other is to train skillful professionals for the society.

The reasons why many believe that education makes it possible for individuals to fulfill their dreams are fairly clear. First, by learning new knowledge, one can be inspired and gradually spot the area he has passion in. Also, with the right guidance and ideal educational facilities, one can have opportunity to delve into the field he is deeply interested in. For example, children who are encouraged to explore the nature in their own way without any restrictions in their childhood are more likely to develop a strong interest in Science like Botany. Therefore, Combining the systematic and thorough training he received in his specialty and his own efforts, one can realize his ambition of being a botanist. Moreover, in pursuing one's dream, one can certainly realize the significance of his life to himself and to others, which is the real source of happiness.

On the other hand, some believe the ultimate aim of education is to provide useful individuals for the society. It is widely acknowledged that the government has an obligation to guarantee its citizens' right to education. As a society cannot develop without every social member's efforts, it is understandable that the society wish to get the return from its investment on thousands of young men and women who are supposed to be the main force in its future development. Many western countries and some emerging developing regions, for instance, allocate a large proportion of their financial budget to various levels of education including basic, vocational and higher education every year. It is due to the contribution from those talents from all walks of life that people in these countries can enjoy high-level civilization and abundance.

In my opinion, the essence of education should be individual's personality education and only by respecting and developing each individual's personality can educators help them achieve their aspirations. And in the process of fulfilling one's real ambition, the education one receives can benefit both himself and the whole society in a much wider sphere.(By Amy)