Leaders of Catholic education in Cameroon met at the National Episcopal Conference, Mvolyé, Yaoundé, on Tuesday 09 December 2025 to chart a strategic roadmap addressing challenges in Catholic schools.
By Magnus Ful
Strategic Planning and Key Contributions
The workshop brought together the National Secretariat of Catholic Education staff, educators, and consultants to review data from stakeholders and set priorities for the next phase of the project. Participants focused on identifying the main issues affecting Catholic schools and preparing a roadmap to strengthen teacher training, school infrastructure, and resources to align with the Church’s educational mission.
Rev. Fr. Aurelien Lehoun Mbea, National Secretary for Catholic Education, praised the guidance of lead consultant, Mr. Nkoa Jean de Dieu for his “exceptional support and clarity,” highlighting the methodological rigor and strategic vision that shaped the workshop. He also commended the SENECA (National Secretariat for Catholic Education in Cameroon) team for their dedication, calling them “true artisans of the educational transformation we aim to achieve.”
Fr. Mbea stressed that the work completed represents a decisive step toward four upcoming tasks: in-depth data analysis, technical drafting of a strategic plan, consultations with key stakeholders, and final validation by the National Episcopal Conference. He reminded participants that perseverance, vision, and patience are essential for success, invoking Pope John XXIII: “The secret of inner peace is to give everything and entrust everything to God.”
Stakeholder Insights and Expert Collaboration
Mr. Aloysius Ngong, National Pedagogic Coordinator for Catholic Primary and Nursery Schools, explained that the workshop focused on analyzing the results of questionnaires sent to parents, learners, teachers, school administrators, and education secretaries. The aim is to identify challenges facing Catholic schools and ensure the strategic plan addresses training, infrastructure, and resources to fulfill the Church’s mission.
Mr. Ngong emphasized the role of external experts, including researchers and consultants, in helping SENECA develop a robust plan. “We need to collaborate with experts because the knowledge and skills required to build such a comprehensive plan are beyond our current capacity,” he said. He added that the initiative covers all levels of Catholic education in Cameroon, from primary to university, and follows a carefully planned calendar.
Fr. Mbea concluded by entrusting the work to God and urging continued dedication. “The work done today is just one step, but it is a decisive one,” he said. “We must remain committed, trusting that God will guide us toward a transformative future for education in Cameroon.”
Background Context
This December workshop builds on two prior events held at the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon. On the 19-20 November 2025, ONAPEEC (National Organization for Catholic Parents and Teachers) held its 34th General Assembly to promote parental engagement and address challenges in implementing the Catholic educational project. The following day – November 21, the SEDUC (Secretariat for Catholic Education) Permanent Committee convened to strengthen diocesan coordination, address operational challenges, and update the 2026–2031 strategic plan. Together, these gatherings laid the foundation for the December 9 workshop, ensuring the strategic plan reflects stakeholder input, parental involvement, and the Church’s holistic vision for education at all levels.
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