Any developed country provides free education until at least the end of high school, everyone recognized that as a right and an investment in one's population.

Times have changed and a high school diploma is no longer sufficient, so free education must be extended accordingly. But of course, only for those who show they qualify, not everyone should go to college, but almost everyone can get some vocational training.

Germany's blockbuster economic strength is due in large part to the fact it recognizes this and provides vocational training, apprenticeships, etc. and therefore has a highly educated and skilled population.