Pope Leo XIV has urged Catholic educators in Africa to help young people rediscover confidence in their future, especially those driven to leave the continent out of despair. His message, signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, was sent to Archbishop Gabriel Sayaogo for the African Congress on Catholic Education held in Nairobi from 4 to 7 December.
The congress, titled “Catholic Education and the Promotion of Signs of Hope in the African Context,” focused on revitalising formation grounded in Christ. The Pope expressed appreciation for ongoing efforts to advance the Global Compact on Education, a commitment strongly supported by Pope Francis.
Education that forms “full hearts”
Pope Leo recalls that Catholic education aims not only to develop “cultivated minds” but also “full hearts” capable of compassion and concern for others. Young people, he notes, are “the wealth of Africa,” and educators must find effective ways to guide students toward the future with confidence.
He warns that many youths, discouraged by limited opportunities, leave the continent at great personal risk. Educators, he says, can help restore in them the belief that “nothing is lost” when they are accompanied by mentors who help them recognise their talents and set ambitious goals rooted in Africa’s cultural and moral strengths.
Protecting the family and forming leaders
Drawing on his homily for the Jubilee of Families, the Pope highlights the family as the place where “the future of peoples is built.” He calls for protecting the family as intended by the Creator and promoted by the Church, guarding it against harmful ideologies.
Many African leaders were formed in Catholic schools, he notes, yet the continent still faces significant challenges. He encourages educators to nurture two qualities essential for responsible leadership: solidarity and a spirit of sacrifice—values deeply rooted in African tradition and central to the Church’s mission of forming people committed to the common good.
An evangelising mission
“Education is not only a job but an evangelising mission,” the Pope concludes. Recalling his predecessor’s description of young Africans as potential “ambassadors of peace,” he urges all involved in education to form men and women who can become the builders of the continent’s future.
(vatican news)
