The Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Cape Coast, Most Rev. Charles Gabriel Palmer-Buckle, has called for a new approach to Ghana’s education system, urging a focus on developing well-rounded individuals capable of global competitiveness and environmental mastery.
His remarks were made during the fourth edition of the Human Library initiative, a unique event held at the Sam Jonah Library of the University of Cape Coast (UCC).
The Archbishop emphasized that the country’s educational system should aim for “total human development” to empower the youth. According to him, an education that truly fulfills its purpose must go beyond academic performance and focus on building character.
He outlined five core virtues—obedience (and self-discipline), wisdom, stature, the favor of God, and love for one’s neighbor—as essential pillars for shaping a balanced educational framework.
“I believe that if education has to fulfill its purpose of making a holistic human being, five virtues, namely, obedience (and self-discipline), wisdom, stature, the favor of God, and the love of one’s neighbour, should form the pillars of our educational system,” the Archbishop said.
The Human Library is a global concept designed to foster dialogue and understanding through shared life experiences, where people serve as “books” to be “borrowed” for a conversation. It aims to facilitate the exchange of stories and wisdom that can guide individuals in navigating life’s challenges.
The Archbishop’s participation was part of this initiative, where he shared his insights on how spirituality intersects with academic success.
Addressing his readers under the theme “Influence of Spirituality on Academic Performance,” Most Rev. Palmer-Buckle made a compelling case for the role of character formation in education. He described obedience as the cornerstone of any quality educational experience. “To develop the students, the spirit of obedience, which leads to self-discipline, must be imbibed to enhance their lives’ self-control drive,” he asserted.
He urged both students and educators to embody the principles of obedience and self-discipline, calling on academics to be visible role models beyond the confines of their classrooms. “Obedience was missing in today’s society,” the Archbishop noted, urging the youth to embrace these values not only in their studies but in every aspect of life.
The Archbishop also stressed the importance of physical well-being in personal development. He advised students to “grow up in stature,” meaning that a healthy mind requires a healthy body. His message reinforced the idea that education should nurture the body, mind, and spirit in equal measure, allowing students to flourish holistically.
“Education should not only lead to good grades obtained in class but also spiritual fortitude necessary to guide one through life,” he explained.
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