Catholic schools in Kenya have been urged to remain firmly grounded in faith while embracing purpose driven education to navigate ongoing reforms in the sector.
Catholic Diocese of Kitale Bishop Rt. Rev. Henry Juma Odonya emphasized the need for institutions to integrate spiritual formation with academic excellence.
Bishop Odonya was speaking during the official opening of the 12th Catholic Private Educational Institutions Association (CaPEIA) Conference at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA).
The conference, themed ‘Catholic Schools Rooted in Faith, Rising with Purpose’, brought together education stakeholders, including school heads, religious leaders, and policymakers, to reflect on the future of Catholic education in the country.
Bishop Odonya insisted that Catholic education must go beyond the transmission of knowledge and focus on the holistic formation of learners.
“Catholic education has always gone beyond the transmission of knowledge. It is fundamentally about integral formation, forming the whole person intellectually, spiritually, morally, physically, and socially,” he highlighted.
He noted that in a world increasingly characterized by uncertainty, moral relativism, and rapid change, Catholic schools must remain ‘beacons of truth and hope’.
Quoting Pope Francis, the Bishop described education as a transformative vocation rather than a routine duty. “Education is an act of love, it is like giving life,” he said adding that educators must view their role as one that nurtures human dignity and awakens purpose.
He at the same time challenged institutions to align with ongoing education reforms, particularly the implementation of the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system, which he described as a significant shift in Kenya’s education landscape.
“The transition to senior school pathways requires deliberate planning, investment in infrastructure, and continuous teacher development,” the Bishop outlined.
Further, Odonya urged Catholic institutions to take a leadership role in implementing the new system, noting that its focus on competencies, creativity, and values resonates with the philosophy of Catholic education.
“In many ways, the Competency-Based Education aligns with our long-standing commitment to holistic formation. However, this alignment requires intentional leadership,” he added.
Equally, the Bishop emphasized that Catholic identity must remain central in all aspects of learning and school life.
“We must ensure that faith is not reduced to a subject among others, but remains the guiding light that illuminates all aspects of learning,” Odonya advised.
He further noted that Catholic schools must embody their values through relationships, leadership, and service. “Catholic identity is not simply taught; it is lived,” he declared.
On student welfare, Bishop Odonya highlighted the importance of safeguarding and addressing emerging challenges affecting young people, including mental health concerns and social pressures.
“Our schools must become spaces of healing, guidance, and protection. Safeguarding is not simply a policy requirement; it is a Gospel imperative,” he stated.
Similarly, Odonya stressed that every learner must be treated with dignity, noting that children are created in the image of God and deserve care and protection.
The Bishop also underscored the need to support teachers, describing them as central to the success of any education system. “No education system can rise above the quality and commitment of its educators,” he cautioned.
To this regard, Odonya called on school leaders to invest in professional development and prioritize the well-being of teachers and staff. “A teacher who is valued, supported, and inspired becomes a powerful instrument of transformation in the life of a learner,” he added.
Bishop Odonya further encouraged educators to take care of their own well-being by building strong support systems and finding time to rest and recharge.
Meanwhile, as Catholic institutions contribute to national development, the Bishop insisted that they must also address inequalities in access to quality education.
“We are called to advocate for justice and to seek innovative solutions that ensure no learner is left behind,” he remarked.
On the other hand, Odonya observed that Catholic schools play a vital role in nation-building by shaping responsible citizens, ethical leaders, and compassionate individuals.
“Young people need quality education and formation that enables them to grow in harmony and make meaningful contributions to society,” stressed Odonya.
In the meantime, the Bishop called on participants to use the conference as an opportunity for renewal and collaboration.
“Let us engage deeply, share openly, and learn from one another. Let us strengthen our networks and reaffirm our shared mission,” he rallied.
In addition, he urged educators to rediscover the joy and calling of their vocation and to recommit to forming learners who are grounded in faith and values.
Ultimately, Bishop Odonya called for a balance between faith and action in shaping the future of education.
“We are called to remain deeply rooted in faith while rising courageously with purpose,” he said, expressing hope that the conference would inspire renewed commitment among Catholic educators and strengthen the mission of Catholic schools in Kenya.
by Celestine Lomolijah
