Decline of Catholic education influence: Bishop Asiedu calls for action amidst political intrusion

Vicar of the Apostolic Vicariate of Donkorkrom, Most  Rev. John Alphonse Asiedu, SVD, has highlighted the historical significance of Catholic education in Ghana while expressing concern over the erosion of its influence due to political interference.

According to him, with a century-long legacy of education intertwined with evangelization, the Catholic Church played a pivotal role in founding educational institutions across the nation.

However, Bishop Asiedu lamented the intrusion of politics into the education system, leading to a decline in the traditional Catholic ethos within schools.

Addressing educators at a workshop for Capacity Building for Heads of Catholic Schools in the Vicariate of Donkorkrom on March 21, the Bishop emphasized the urgency of reclaiming the Catholic identity within educational institutions.

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“Unfortunately, over the years, and particularly in recent times, politics has entered so deep into our education system and has destroyed the one time solid Catholic/Christian foundation and formation which was closely linked to education in our schools.”

“This has resulted in total religious and moral decadence among our children and the youth – gross disrespect, laziness, indiscipline, lack of commitment, ready to do anything to get rich overnight, and the likes. That is how bad the situation is today with regards to the education and formation of our children and the youth of our country,” the Prelate said.

He stressed the need for daily Catholic practices in schools, such as morning assemblies and Mass celebrations on feast days, to rekindle the spirit of faith and discipline among students.

Highlighting an upcoming National Catholic Education Forum, Bishop Asiedu called for collaborative efforts with stakeholders to address the challenges facing the education sector. He urged the Vicariate Education Council to fulfill its mandate in advising on education matters and coordinating Catholic education policies effectively.