At a system level, this totally makes sense. But as an individual learner, what would be my motivation to do so, when I can "just" actually learn my subject and move on?

>But as an individual learner, what would be my motivation to do so

Because if there's one thing the older generations is much better than us at, it's complaining about the system and getting them to kowtow to them. We dismiss systematic change as if it doesn't start with the individual, and are surprised that the system ignores or abuses us.

We should be thinking short and long term. Learn what you need to learn today, but if you want better education for you and everyone else: you won't get it by relinquishing the powers you have to evoke change.