For some context, I would like to go ahead and state the definition of the word INTELLIGENCE.
Simply stated;
Intelligence is the ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills. Google
Now going by this definition, it is safe to say that human intelligence, as an entity, has absolutely nothing to do with school and grades. Can it be applied in school and education? Yes. If applied in school, will it produce good grades? Yes.
As some of us may be aware, formal education is not the only type of education. There are several ways that we learn and pick up important information. Going to school is not the end all be all for everyone. I am of the opinion that the structure of the educational system is not accommodating of every student.
With that being said, getting good grades in school can, in a way, be an accurate measure of intelligence. Upon meticulous scrutiny, it is noticeable that for a student to attain good grades, he/she has to implement some degree of intelligence. This is in no way disregarding other values that also have to be exercised. Values such as diligence, discipline, focus, etc. This is but to name a few.
We do not all need to pass through formal education in order to be considered intelligent. For various reasons, we are all not opportune to be granted the luxury of formal education. Some people start education and stop half-way. It could be due to unfavorable financial situations, change of heart, depression, the list goes on. And yet these people, although launched into the society earlier than most, still go on to be great individuals in different fields.
Intelligence can be viewed in various categories other than the grounds of formal education, a lot of intelligent acts can be further seen in other aspects of life such as; the ability to learn a skill, devise new ways of solving problems and the basic human survival instinct devoid of formal education. For example; farmers knowing exactly when and where to plant certain crops and the kinds of soil needed to germinate the seeds, the fisherman knowing what bait to use to make a catch without studying fishery in college shows that man can exhibit intelligence in other aspects besides passing an examination.
I hope my perception above has been able to vehemently inculcate an apt understanding of the concept of intelligence as a rather independent entity that can be associated with all facets of life.
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