Most of what people come to a conclusion about Islam is a misconception because they did not really spend time to study it all with its details.

The verse you spoke about was directed to the wives of the Prophet (peace be upon him) after an issue that happened between them bringing the focus on the importance of the wife being at home taking care of her family first and as the most important thing, but that does not mean to prevent them from stepping out for all kinds of necessities including seeking knowledge.

There are too many examples to prove that point. For example, women at the time of Sahabah would go to battles to treat the injured.

Another example, when the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

“Do not prevent the females to attend the houses of Allah.” (Al-Bukhari)

Another example is the one mentioned in the Qur’an about the two daughters of Prophet Shu`aib (peace be upon him) when they were taking the herd of sheep as shepherd to the pond of water.

So, let us not take one verse and disconnect it from the whole understanding of Islam.

No doubt, for a female to be home to care for her kids and her family is the most honorable thing.