You have to compare comparables situations : what could have been done different with the same resources involved ? Having an educational system is a sign that

You have to compare comparables situations : what could have been done different with the same resources involved ? Having an educational system is a sign that the society is wealthy and can afford it, but doesn't mean it's the best use of resources involved (thus it might have a bad ROI). You said education was overlooked where you come from, was there an educational system there ?