The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) and the Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) have voiced their concerns over their exclusion from the upcoming National Education Forum, scheduled for February 18-19, 2025.
Despite the involvement of organisations affiliated with both institutions, neither the GCBC nor the CCG has been invited to participate in this important discussion on the future of education in the country.
In a joint press statement issued on February 17, the two religious bodies expressed their disappointment at the omission, highlighting their significant role in the educational sector. “As key stakeholders in the educational sector, particularly in the provision of quality education through our schools, we are perplexed by the omission of our contributions to discussions that are pivotal to the future of education in Ghana,” the statement reads.
Both the GCBC and the CCG have long been committed to improving education in Ghana, with a particular focus on ensuring that educational institutions cater to the needs of every Ghanaian child, regardless of their background or beliefs.
Their exclusion from the forum, the statement argues, undermines the collaborative approach that is essential for the success of educational policies and reforms.
The GCBC and CCG emphasised the importance of inclusivity in the national discourse on education. They argue that the participation of all stakeholders, including religious bodies, educators, and parents, is critical in shaping policies that reflect the values, traditions, and aspirations of the Ghanaian people.
“The national discourse on education requires the involvement of all stakeholders… We believe that the absence of the GCBC and CCG at this forum is a disservice to the broader educational community and to the ideals of inclusivity and shared responsibility in national development,” the statement added.
The religious leaders called on the Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Education, to reconsider the exclusion and extend an invitation to the GCBC, CCG, and other relevant bodies to ensure that the forum fosters a truly inclusive dialogue. “We call on the Government of Ghana… to ensure that this forum reflects a truly inclusive dialogue on the future of education in our country,” the statement urged.
The GCBC and CCG also reiterated their commitment to collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure that Ghana’s education system is not only of high quality but also inclusive, equitable, and aligned with the moral and spiritual well-being of society.
“We remain committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure that Ghana’s education system is not only of high quality but also inclusive, equitable, and in line with the moral and spiritual well-being of our society,” they affirmed.
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