By: Austin S Fallah – A True Nationalist:
In a world characterized by rapid globalization, the unique identities of nations risk being diluted by external cultural influences and changing demographics.
Small nations, particularly in Africa, face a formidable challenge in preserving their cultural identity and national values.
Liberia, with its rich historical tapestry and cultural diversity, stands at an intersection where the tide of globalization meets a compelling need to safeguard its heritage.
Advocates for cultural preservation argue that a pivotal strategy to maintain Liberia’s identity lies within its educational framework specifically, the manifestation of Godly principles, profound respect for everyone, adherence to the Liberian Constitution, and a comprehensive understanding of Liberia’s true history and values. With this goal in mind, I am proposing the creation of a Liberian National Exam (LNE) as a mandatory requirement for all Liberian students before graduation, in consonance with the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exams.
Modeled on Nigeria’s Government (JEMB) and drawing inspiration from other African countries that have successfully integrated their cultural values into their educational systems, Liberia stands on the precipice of redefining its narrative and solidifying its identity through the minds and spirits of its future generations.
This adda aims to construct an argument that supports the introduction of the Liberian National Exam as an indispensable element of secondary education in Liberia.
The Rationale Behind the Liberian National Exam:
The call to instill Godly principles and respect for everyone through education is not just about reinforcing morality, but it’s also about nurturing a society that values integrity, fairness, and compassion.
Such principles provide the foundation of a cohesive and resilient society.
By incorporating these elements into the curriculum, the Liberian National Exam would promote a shared sense of right and wrong, which in turn fosters a culture of respect for the rule of law and for one another.
Moreover, the alignment with the Liberian Constitution within education is pivotal in that it ensures that students grow with a full appreciation for the rule of law and civil liberties enshrined in the nation’s most important document.
Knowledge of the Constitution translates into informed citizenship and enables students to be proactive agents of democracy and justice, crucial for the country’s stability and advancement.
Preservation of National Identity through True History and Cultural Education:
The preservation of national identity can not be overstated.
It’s through understanding one’s history that a nation learns from past struggles, celebrates achievements, and honors its forebears.
A national exam that encompasses Liberia’s true history would ensure that every young Liberian has access to authentic narratives, debunking colonial or biased historical accounts that may have pervaded educational materials.
Teaching Liberian values, culture, and traditions is a powerful vehicle for cultivating pride and a sense of belonging that strengthens the national psyche.
The Argument for Cultural Education:
It is essential to consider the benefits and necessity of cultural education within the framework of a Liberian National Exam.
Studies across various educational systems demonstrate that when students understand and appreciate their cultural heritage, they achieve a sense of identity and personal growth.
This engagement fosters self-esteem and facilitates a deeper connection to their community.
Furthermore, when students are exposed to their national culture and values through their curricula, they are more likely to perpetuate these values in society, thus ensuring their continuity through generations.
Global Examples and Lessons Learned:
Looking at Nigeria’s JAMB, it’s evident that integrating a nation-specific exam can bear fruit.
The JAMB aids students in internalizing national values, which translates into a workforce and leadership that aligns with the country’s developmental goals.
Many other African nations, such as Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa, have recognized the essence of cultural education and have taken strides to incorporate their heritage within their curricula.
These efforts underscore a broader recognition within the continent that to look forward to, in a globalized world, one must firmly grasp their past and cultural roots.
Liberia can learn from these precedents and tailor its national exam to fit the unique fabric of its history and values.
Implementation Strategies:
The successful implementation of the Liberian National Exam would necessitate an inclusive approach involving educational policymakers, curriculum developers, historians, cultural experts, and community stakeholders.
To be effective, the exam’s framework must be reflective of all regions within Liberia, encapsulating the diverse traditions and languages found across the country.
Furthermore, teacher training programs would need to be bolstered to prepare educators for a curriculum that might be wider in scope than what they have traditionally taught.
Adequate resources, including updated textbooks and supplemental materials, must also be provided to ensure the quality and integrity of the education delivered.
Exam Structure and Integration with Current Curriculum:
The Liberian National Exam should not be an extraneous component of the education system but should rather be intimately woven into the existing curriculum.
It would complement the WAEC exams, serving not just as an assessment tool but also as a means to reinforce the practical application of knowledge concerning Liberia’s governance, history, and culture.
Practical applications might involve service-learning projects, cultural exchange programs, debates, and other interactive methodologies that engage students beyond most rote memorization.
This approach not only makes learning more impactful but also more enjoyable, which is critical to student retention and success.
The establishment of a Liberian National Exam is a step toward ensuring that the next generation of Liberians is not only academically accomplished but also deeply rooted in the country’s values and history.
Such an exam would systematically instill in students a respect for Godly principles, a commitment to the rule of law encapsulated in the Liberian Constitution, and an unwavering appreciation for their cultural heritage.
As Liberia stands at the crossroads of preserving its identity amid the waves of globalization, decisive action in embedding its values and traditions into the fabric of its education system is paramount.
By following the footsteps of other African nations that have successfully integrated cultural education into their curricula, Liberia can ensure that its unique identity thrives for generations to come.
Thus, the call for a Liberian National Exam is not just a call for academic reform, but it is a clarion call for the preservation and celebration of Liberian identity, unity, and continuity.
