The denial of education, the mastery of artistic techniques, and the development of high-efficiency motors—seemingly disparate themes, yet they intersect in profound ways, shaping individual destinies and societal progress. Consider Abena, a young girl in a remote village where access to formal schooling is severely limited. Her family, bound by tradition and poverty, believes education is unnecessary for girls. Abena, however, possesses an innate talent for painting. Using readily available materials—charcoal, mud, and pigments from crushed berries—she transforms the walls of her family's humble dwelling into vibrant tapestries depicting scenes of her daily life and dreams. Her artistic expression becomes a powerful form of self-discovery and a quiet rebellion against the constraints imposed upon her. This self-taught mastery of artistic technique serves not only as an outlet for her creativity but also as a subtle protest against her limited opportunities. Meanwhile, in a bustling metropolis, engineer Kenji dedicates his life to perfecting high-efficiency electric motors. Driven by a deep concern for environmental sustainability and a desire to reduce humanity's carbon footprint, he tirelessly works to improve energy conversion rates. He envisions a future where his innovations will power a cleaner, more sustainable world. Kenji's technical prowess, developed through rigorous education and countless hours of research, stands in stark contrast to Abena's self-taught artistry. Yet, both Abena and Kenji’s endeavors highlight the crucial interplay between individual talent, opportunity, and societal progress. Abena's artistic expression, born from adversity and lack of educational opportunity, speaks to the inherent human capacity for creativity. Kenji's success, on the other hand, illustrates the power of formal education and resources in driving technological advancement. The denial of education to Abena directly limits her potential, suggesting a systemic failure to nurture talent and facilitate progress, while Kenji's innovation demonstrates the potential benefits of a society that invests in education and research. The stories of Abena and Kenji, seemingly unconnected at first glance, converge in a shared message: the importance of equitable access to education and the power of innovation—whether artistic or technological—to improve lives and shape a better future. Their experiences underscore the urgent need to bridge the gap between those who have access to resources and those who are denied them, highlighting the inherent interconnectedness of social justice, artistic expression, and technological advancement.
1. What is the central theme explored in the passage?
2. What does Abena’s artistic expression represent in the context of the passage?
3. Kenji’s work on high-efficiency motors primarily reflects which of the following?
4. The contrast between Abena and Kenji’s experiences serves to highlight which key idea?
5. Which of the following best summarizes the passage’s concluding message?