Demand for Radical Change: Catholic Bishop Pushes for System Overhaul in Ghana

In an impassioned plea, Bishop Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference, called for a comprehensive reform of Ghana’s political and educational systems. During the Sahel Peace Initiative (SPI) National Forum held at Christ the King Accra Parish Hall, Bishop Gyamfi expressed grave concern over the escalating youth unemployment crisis. “Things are getting worse and worse,” he cautioned, emphasizing that Ghana’s current political structure isn’t delivering on its promise of progress.

A System Failing the Youth

Bishop Gyamfi pointed out the failures of the current democratic system to provide adequate job opportunities for the youth. “If democracy were working as it should, we’d have seen improvements over the last three decades,” he noted. His remarks underscored a broader call for urgent changes to the nation’s political framework, aligning with the hopes for a meaningful constitutional review.

Education as a Foundation for Change

According to Bishop Gyamfi, a fundamental shift in the educational approach is crucial for long-term change. He advocated for instilling core moral values like honesty and respect from a young age to build a generation capable of steering the country into a better future. “This is where political will should be,” he urged, envisioning an evolved education system that aligns with the values of a more prosperous society.

Addressing the Roots of Unrest

The forum participants discussed how youth unemployment not only stunts economic growth but also foments social unrest and insecurity. By addressing these underlying issues, Ghana may harness its youth population as a catalyst for stability and cohesion, a perspective Bishop Gyamfi shared passionately.

A Call to Emulate Success

Drawing examples from more developed nations, Bishop Gyamfi encouraged Ghana to emulate countries like China, where instilling good values begins in preschool. Such foundational education could lead to a society grounded in integrity, echoing the expectations set by first-world standards.

Charting a New Path

As he concluded, Bishop Gyamfi called on national leaders to embody the values they wish to see in future generations. “We need a manual to guide human behavior,” he reflected, highlighting the essential role of moral and civic education in crafting a more resilient social fabric.

According to ACI Africa, the push for these robust changes aims to position Ghana on a more prosperous path, offering hope and direction for its youthful population.