The Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) and the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) are extremely concerned about their exclusion from the National Education Forum, which is set for February 18–19, 2025.
The two main religious organizations characterized their exclusion as a blow to inclusive discourse on Ghana’s educational future in a press release issued on February 17.
“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.
“Both the GCBC and CCG have a long-standing commitment to the development and welfare of the educational system, and we have consistently worked to ensure that our educational institutions serve the needs of every Ghanaian child, irrespective of their background or beliefs,” the statement read in part.
Overseeing numerous schools and promoting laws that are consistent with the values, customs, and goals of the country, the GCBC and CCG have long been integral to Ghana’s educational system.
They contend that attempts to establish a fair and comprehensive educational system are hampered by their exclusion.
“Our exclusion from this vital forum undermines the collaborative spirit that is essential to the success of any educational policy or reform. The national discourse on education requires the involvement of all stakeholders, including religious bodies, educators, and parents, whose input can guide the formation of policies that align with the values, traditions, and aspirations of the people of Ghana.
“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.”