To know and categorize the most educated tribes in Liberia, there are factors that need to be considered. These factors include the tribe’s contribution to Liberian society, its impact on missionaries and many more. Liberia is a country on the West African coast, which boasts of rich cultures and tribes.
There are many ethnic groups in Liberia and certain tribes stand out for their notable achievements in education. This blog post will talk about the five most educated tribes in Liberia, explaining their contributions to the nation.
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What Makes These Ethnic Groups The Most Educated Tribe In Liberia?
Before we look into the five most educated tribes in Liberia, let’s take a look at the factors that distinguish them from other tribes in the country. In Liberia, there are at least sixteen tribes, but just five made my list of most educated tribes in the country, why? Let’s find out.
1. Historical Context and Educational Pursuits: These ethnic groups have a long history of valuing education, which dates back to the pre-colonial era. Traditionally, education within these communities was not limited to formal schooling but also encompassed learning essential life skills, cultural practices, and moral values.
2. Impact of Missionaries and Formal Education: Another factor that categorizes the tribes listed below as the most educated is the impact of missionaries and formal education. The advent of European missionaries in the 19th century played a significant role in the formal education of the Bassa people.
The Missionaries established schools and introduced Western-style education, which the Bassa community embraced enthusiastically.
These tribes’ eagerness to learn and adapt to new educational systems led to higher literacy rates and a greater number of educated individuals compared to other tribes.
3. Cultural Values and Education: These tribes’ cultures place a strong emphasis on the importance of education as a means to improve individual lives and contribute to community development.
The families who are found under these tribes usually make sacrifices to ensure their children receive a quality education and they believe it to be a road to better opportunities and societal progress.
4. Contributions to Liberian Society: The last factor on my list is these tribes’ contribution to Liberian society. Many prominent Liberian leaders, educators, and professionals hail from these tribes, contributing to various sectors such as politics, medicine, academia, and business.
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Top Most Educated Tribe In Liberia
Below are tribes in Liberia that have a good educational background which gives them an edge ahead of others.
1. The Bassa Tribe Of Liberia
The Bassa tribe, one of the oldest ethnic groups in Liberia, has a long-standing tradition of valuing education. They are known for their linguistic prowess and contributions to the literary arts.
Many Bassa individuals have achieved success in education, holding top political positions in government, business, and academia.
2. Kpelle Tribe Of Liberia
The Kpelle tribe is the largest ethnic group in Liberia and has a strong presence in the country’s educational sector.
Kpelle people are known for their historical farmers and labourers. The Kpelle tribe have increasingly prioritized education as a means to improve their socio-economic status.
It’s now evident as the tribe’s commitment to education shows the increased number of Kpelle professionals in various fields such as medicine, engineering, and academia.
3. The Kru Tribe Of Liberia
The Kru tribe, renowned for their seafaring heritage, also place a high value on education. Historically, Kru people were among the first to embrace Western education introduced by missionaries.
Their early adoption of formal education has resulted in a well-educated population with many Kru individuals excelling in various professional fields.
4. The Mandingo Tribe Of Liberia
The Mandingo tribe, known for their entrepreneurial spirit, have also made substantial strides in education.
According to history, the Mandingo people were traders and merchants, but they have increasingly recognized the importance of formal education in achieving socio-economic advancement.
Today, many Mandingo individuals hold degrees in fields such as business, economics, and international relations.
5. The Vai Tribe Of Liberia
The Vai tribe, creators of one of Africa’s indigenous scripts, have a rich cultural heritage that extends to their emphasis on education. The Vai script, developed in the 19th century, underscores the tribe’s historical commitment to literacy and learning.
In contemporary Liberia, the Vai continue to make education their priority with many tribe members excelling in academia and various professional fields.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Educated Tribes in Liberia
1. What Is The Education Level In Liberia?
The education level in Liberia is poor as 46% of boys and 42% of girls drop out of school. The Annual School Census Report states that the primary school completion rate was at 10 percent for boys and 11 percent for girls.
2. Which Is The Most Educated Nation In Africa?
According to global ranking, Seychelles is 1st in the list as the most educated country in Africa. The country has a 96.20% literacy rate and also has the best education system in Africa.
3. Why Are The Bassa Considered The Most Educated Tribe In Liberia?
The Bassa have a long history of valuing education, with many members achieving high levels of academic and professional success. The tribe has produced scholars, professionals, and political leaders.
4. What Languages Do The Bassa Speak?
The Bassa people speak the Bassa language, which belongs to the Kru language family. Many Bassa also speak English, which is the official language of Liberia.
Conclusion
The Kpelle, Bassa, Kru, Mandingo, and Vai tribes are known to be the most educated tribes in Liberia due to their stern mindset towards education. Their commitment to learning has not only uplifted their communities but also contributed to the nation’s progress.