The series theme is that the world is a better place with love and trust and male female respect and harmony. The Aes Sedai have ignored those with wisdom or experience (saving those who are Aes Sedai) since the Trolloc Wars. Rather than apprentice with one of the great captains (look at Joline's failure to learn anything from Mat) they sniff in destain every times anyone deigns to try to advise THEM. I think this is why Egwene comes across well-for all ridiculousness, she has seen multiple cultures and learned from those with multiple points of view and range of experience. RJ is contrasting the stagnant Tower with Egwene's more open approach. (oh God, I fear the wrath of you know who!)