The ability for persons to learn and grasp concepts should not be dependent on their socio-economics or location.
The government should, in-fact place enough investment in its citizens that would be important for developing the nation. A basic education will incite individuals to curiosity. This type of curiosity will provoke problem solving for basic and then advanced issues. Building and solving problems will create more opportunities for learning, building and growing.
This will increase economic growth and there will be more money in the education, health and other sectors. Having more money in the Health care system will improve and extend quality of life. This will in turn make better workers and more productive workers. Birth rate can increase and by extension, the population. having more money, and more healthy persons and better technology can catapult a small country into the mainstream. The small change of free basic education can cause a ripple of positive effects.
In conclusion, Free education empowers a nation!