From government advisories and scientific developments to fake news and home remedies, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a flood of information (and misinformation). In these uncertain times, education—especially basic science and media literacies—can help students and the public evaluate and verify information to make informed choices.

The pandemic has also forced us to rethink the workplace and the global economy, especially with how it disproportionately affects those with lower levels of education. However, a strong education system can quickly respond to the change in the skill sets needed in the “new normal”, cushioning the impact of job and income losses.

Education has the potential to reduce inequalities exacerbated by the pandemic as well: improved education outcomes can lead to higher incomes and higher tax revenues in the medium-long run, creating a virtuous cycle of education financing.

For society to emerge from the pandemic stronger, investing in education should be a priority in our recovery plans.