The 75th Ordinary Session of Bamenda Province Episcopal Conference (BAPEC) – A Promising Start for Education

The Diocese of Kumba has set the stage for an important event in the ecclesiastical calendar – the 75th ordinary session of the Bamenda Province Episcopal Conference (BAPEC) for the year 2023. This year’s conference promises significant discussions and reflections on various pastoral aspects, with a particular focus on education.

The conference commenced on Thursday, the 17th of August 2023, with an opening ceremony that saw the participation of the vice president of BAPEC, Monsignor Michael Bibi, who stood in for the absent president, His Grace Archbishop Andrew.

One of the primary highlights of this session is the thorough evaluation of education within the province. Reports have been presented on the state of Catholic schools and colleges across different dioceses, spanning from primary to university levels. The key aim is to assess whether these institutions have effectively served as places of integral formation.

In the backdrop of an ongoing crisis in Cameroon, the Bishops are keen to address the challenges faced by educational institutions, such as low enrollment and difficulties in collecting school fees. They also explore solutions to adapt to the changing dynamics of education in the region.

The conference emphasizes the pivotal role of education as a privileged avenue for evangelization, nurturing faith, and transmitting values. The discussions aim to chart a path towards improving the educational landscape in the province.

In addition to the Bishops, the conference sees the active participation of education secretaries from various dioceses and finance administrators. Notably, the national education secretary at the National Episcopal Conference, Reverend Father Zephyrinus In Yemen, is also in attendance.

While the sessions are still ongoing, initial reports indicate a positive outlook. The Bishops are hopeful that their deliberations will pave the way for a brighter future in education within the Bamenda Province.

This year’s BAPEC conference is not only a platform for reflection but also a testament to the unity and cooperative responsibility among the dioceses in addressing common challenges. It underscores the commitment of the Church to provide quality education and foster spiritual growth in the region.

Stay tuned for more updates from the 75th ordinary session of BAPEC as the Bishops and collaborators continue their important work in Kumba, Cameroon.