22/03/2025
Part 4: Degree Without Sense - Educated Illiterates: The Case of the “Pseudo-Educated”
It’s been such an insightful journey over the past few days discussing the concept of “degree without sense” and the idea of educated illiterates. We’ve had some powerful conversations and reflections, but today, I came across a very interesting and thought-provoking comment by Gilges Musumali, and I believe it’s time to dive deeper into this idea.
Gilges asked: “How about the ‘pseudo-educated’ like footballers, AI creators, and musicians?”
This question really got me thinking and I wanted to share my thoughts with all of you. It brings us face-to-face with a critical shift in how we view education and success in today’s world.
Great point, Gilges!
The “pseudo-educated” individuals, whether they’re footballers, AI creators, or musicians, have often challenged and redefined the traditional idea of education in their unique ways. These individuals don’t necessarily fit into the conventional academic mold, yet they excel in their fields in ways that many traditional educational paths might not have prepared them for.
Take, for example, footballers. They don’t walk the traditional educational path, but their discipline, strategy, and teamwork are some of the most valuable skills in the world. While many are celebrated for their incredible talent, few discuss the mental agility they must develop to perform under pressure, their strategic thinking to outsmart opponents, and the resilience they show after setbacks. This isn’t something you can learn from a textbook, but it’s developed on the field, through real-world experience, training, and dedication. I have witnessed this in the life of one of my sons, Igwe.
Then we have the AI creators, the tech pioneers who are revolutionizing the world. They may not have followed the traditional educational paths, but their innovative thinking and problem-solving are changing the course of humanity. These are individuals who are creating futures we never even imagined, all because they followed their innate curiosity, built on it through self-study, and developed skills in practical ways.
Musicians? These artists often challenge norms as well. Their “education” doesn’t always come from classrooms, but from years of honing their craft, understanding emotion, and connecting with their audience in ways that many formal institutions struggle to teach. Music is a language of its own, one that transcends words, and the greatest musicians are those who are self-taught, listening to their own inner rhythms and finding ways to communicate universally through sound.
What these individuals prove is that success and knowledge aren’t always confined to a classroom or degree. In fact, many of them exemplify a different kind of wisdom, and one that comes from experience, passion, and dedication. They demonstrate that true education isn’t just about certificates and degrees; it’s about finding and honing your unique gift, and using it to create an impact in the world.
So, let’s consider this: What if we started to acknowledge and value different forms of intelligence? The kind that doesn’t come from memorizing textbooks, but from practical experience and creative thinking. We should start recognizing the power of applied knowledge, I mean, the type that drives innovation, that solves real problems, and that creates lasting impact in society.
Perhaps the real shift needs to happen in how we perceive intelligence. It’s not just about a degree or a title. It’s about the impact you make, the lives you touch, and the wisdom you bring through your unique perspective. Imagine a world where we value a balance of education, the one that nurtures academic knowledge and practical skills. A world where footballers, musicians, and innovators are recognized as much for their wisdom and creativity as for their credentials.
Education is not one-size-fits-all. It’s about empowering individuals to find their purpose, hone their skills, and contribute meaningfully to the world. Let’s embrace the diversity of education and the many paths that lead to success. Because ultimately, it’s not the certificate we hold that defines us, but the impact we create.
As we continue this conversation, let’s keep challenging ourselves to rethink what education really means. Let’s continue to celebrate the various forms of intelligence, and recognize that true success is about growth, innovation, and making a difference, no matter the path we take.
Let’s keep the conversation going, and remember: Education is not the degree, it’s the difference you make.
Prof. Mgbeke
