It has long been known that education is a key driver for personal success. The U.S. Census Bureau states that in 2007, the mean income of someone with a Bachelor's degree or higher was more than twice that of someone who had only finished high school.

However, a well-educated population is also necessary for economic growth and stability, according to Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner. Human capital is the driving force for the future, and that requires skills and knowledge one gets through education.

"Just one month ago, President Obama reminded us that we must recognize that education and innovation will be the currency of the 21st century," Geithner said in a meeting with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Minister of Foreign Trade while visitng Abu Dhabi.

At the meeting, hosted by the U.S.-UAE Business Council, the topics included the importance of the knowledge-based economy and how education can be coupled with development goals.

Geithner's trip is part of a world-wide tour is to evaluate the significance of education in creating a framework for growth and economic sustainability.