National Catholic Education Forum Advocates Reforms and Inclusion

The second National Catholic Education Forum has commenced from March 10 to 15, 2025 in Koforidua, Ghana, bringing together key stakeholders from the Church, government, and civil society to deliberate on the future of education in the country.

With the theme “Catholic Education for Integral Development: Shaping a Resilient and Inclusive Ghana,” the five-day forum seeks to address pressing educational challenges and propose reforms for a more equitable and effective system.

A key concern emerging from the forum’s opening ceremony on Tuesday was the urgent need for educational reform, particularly in achieving a balance between traditional academic pathways and technical, vocational, and science-focused education.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Charles Abugre, Managing Director of the Tamale Ecclesiastical Province Partnership in Action (TEPPIA) an NGO and the development wing of the Tamale Ecclesiastical Province emphasized the growing disparity between grammar schools and technical vocational institutions. He called for a comprehensive strategy to strengthen investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to better equip young people with relevant skills for the modern economy.

Dr. Abugre also noted that mission schools have historically been leaders in educational excellence in Ghana. However, the lack of formal agreements between these schools and the state has hindered their ability to form effective partnerships that benefit the national education system.

His Excellency Julian Kabore, the Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana, underscored the importance of Catholic schools maintaining their commitment to inclusivity, ensuring education remains accessible to all, particularly the poor and marginalized. He reaffirmed the Church’s dedication to evangelizing and uplifting underserved communities through education.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Education, Director-General of the Ghana Education Service, Prof. Kofi Davis, highlighted the rising issue of indiscipline in schools and its impact on educational standards. He encouraged the forum to explore alternative, non-violent disciplinary methods that foster respect and order while eliminating the reliance on corporal punishment.

The forum builds on a previous national education dialogue hosted by the government, aiming to address existing challenges while fostering stronger collaboration among stakeholders. Discussions are expected to center on key themes such as inclusivity, educational innovation, and the crucial role of mission schools in shaping Ghana’s educational landscape.

Eastern Regional Minister, Hon. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, reassured participants of the commitment of the John Dramani Mahama-led government to addressing the challenges facing Ghana’s education system and working towards meaningful reforms.

As the forum progresses, participants will continue to explore sustainable solutions to strengthen Ghana’s educational sector, ensuring that Catholic education remains a pillar of excellence and inclusivity in national development.