HOW THE IGBO NOTION OF FUNCTIONAL KNOWLEDGE CAN INSPIRE A FUNCTIONAL LIFE

The Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria have a rich and complex epistemology that reflects their worldview and values. Their notion of functional knowledge is not just about acquiring information, but about transforming it into wisdom and action. In this post, I will explore the Igbo notion of functional knowledge and how it can inspire us to create a functional life in today's society.

What is Functional Knowledge?

Functional knowledge serves a practical purpose and enables one to achieve one's goals and aspirations. It is not merely theoretical or abstract, but concrete and applicable. It is not just about knowing facts but about learning how to use them effectively and creatively.

Applying the Igbo model of functional knowledge in today's bustling society, characterized by a surge in business creation, invention, and innovation, is a unique fusion of traditional wisdom and modern practicality. This model, as Professor Izu Marcel Onyeocha noted in his work "AFRICA: THE CONCEPT AND THE HORIZONS," emphasizes the important stages of acquiring knowledge and understanding its application in real-life situations.

The Igbo model subscribes to the idea that knowledge, to be useful, must not only be grasped but also understood and applied. This model is not distant from the concepts presented by Jacques Maritain on the degrees of knowledge or Howard Gardner's "Sufficient Intelligence" theory. In essence, knowledge and intelligence must be functional, and this functionality is contingent on the interplay between what is known (theoretical understanding) and how it is applied (practical execution).

The Igbo people have a four-tiered model of knowledge that illustrates the different levels of functionality. These are:

1. Mmata: This is the basic level of knowledge where one becomes acquainted with someone or something. It is the initial stage of learning, where one gathers information and data through observation and experience. It is also the foundation for further knowledge, providing the raw material for analysis and synthesis.

2. Mmnuta: This is the intermediate level of knowledge, where one deepens one's understanding of someone or something. It is the stage of reflection, where one organizes, interprets, and evaluates the information and data obtained from mmata. It is also the stage of communication where one shares and exchanges one's insights and opinions with others.

3. Nghota: This is the advanced level of knowledge where one grasps the essence and meaning of someone or something. It is the stage of comprehension where one integrates and synthesizes the information and data from mmata and the insights and opinions from mmnuta. It is also the stage of application, where one uses one's knowledge to solve problems and make decisions.

4. Nrota: This is the highest level of knowledge, where one attains perfection and mastery of someone or something. It is the stage of innovation where one creates and invents new ways of using and improving knowledge. It is also the stage of transformation, where knowledge becomes a source of inspiration and empowerment for oneself and others.

How Can Functional Knowledge Inspire a Functional Life?

A functional life is a life that is fulfilling, meaningful, and productive. It is a life aligned with one's purpose and values and contributes to the well-being of oneself and others. It is a life that is not stagnant or passive but dynamic and active.

The Igbo notion of functional knowledge can inspire us to create a functional life in the following ways:

1. It can motivate us to seek and acquire relevant and useful knowledge for our personal and professional goals. It can also encourage us to be curious and open-minded and to explore different sources and perspectives of knowledge.

2. It can help us to develop and improve our critical and creative thinking skills and to apply them to various situations and challenges. It can also enable us to communicate, collaborate effectively, and learn from their feedback and experiences.

3. It can guide us to understand and appreciate our knowledge's more profound and broader implications and connections. It can also empower us to use our knowledge to make positive and informed choices and actions.

4. It can inspire us to innovate and create new and better ways of using and sharing our knowledge. It can also transform us into agents of change and leaders of progress in our communities and society.

The Igbo model provides a systematic approach to knowledge acquisition and application in today's society, where creativity and innovation are highly valued. It encourages a move beyond mere data collection (Mmata) to a deeper understanding and interpretation of the data (Mmnuta), which then leads to practical application (Nghota) and, potentially, disruptive innovation (Nrota).

For instance, in the business world, this model can guide entrepreneurs through starting and growing their businesses. From gathering information about the market (Mmata), analyzing the data to understand trends and needs (Mmnuta), developing strategies and implementing them (Nghota), to creating innovative solutions that give them a competitive edge (Nrota).

Furthermore, the Igbo model underlines the importance of not just acquiring knowledge but also understanding and applying it - a crucial concept in today's fast-paced, rapidly changing world. This approach to knowledge is not limited to business or technology sectors. Still, it applies across all areas of life, emphasizing the need for an integrated, practical approach to knowledge and learning.

The Igbo model of functional knowledge, rooted in traditional Igbo philosophy, provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and applying knowledge in contemporary society. It encourages us to go beyond mere information acquisition and strive for deeper understanding, practical application, and innovation. When properly harnessed, this model can be a beacon for creating a more functional life and society.