Education and digitalization: a new challenge for catholic schools in Cameroon 🎓

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The National Organization of Parent Associations of Catholic Education (ONAPEEC) held its 33rd ordinary general assembly to address the challenges of education in the digital age. Parents, teachers, and stakeholders discussed their roles in navigating this educational transformation.

A central theme: education in the digital era 📌

ONAPEEC’s 33rd ordinary general assembly took place on November 20-21, 2024, at the headquarters of the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon (CENC). The chosen theme, “Parents and the Responsibility of Educating in the Era of Digitalization,” highlights a pressing educational priority: preparing students for a dematerialized world through digital technologies.

According to Wilfried Donatien Ntolo, ONAPEEC’s national president, digital education requires active parental involvement. Parents themselves must understand the impacts, benefits, and risks of digitalization.

An educational tool and a parental challenge📱

Digitalization is reshaping learning by introducing digital tools for data storage, sharing, and research. It provides unprecedented access to knowledge but also poses risks, particularly regarding young people’s use of social media.

“The parent must be trained to guide their child toward responsible use of digital tools, especially in Catholic schools,” said Wilfried Donatien Ntolo.

International children’s rights day 📅

The first day of the assembly coincided with International Children’s Rights Day, emphasizing the role of education in the development of younger generations in the digital age. According to ONAPEEC, beyond academic knowledge, Catholic schools stand out by offering holistic human development. Despite the high cost of these schools, the organization underscores their contribution to digital integration.

“The greatest legacy a parent can give their children is a quality education rooted in human values. It’s essential to begin digital integration in a rapidly evolving world,” added the national president.

Reconstruction and solidarity after Yagoua floods🏠

During the assembly, an appeal was made to support schools affected by recent floods in Yagoua. Guiswe Galgaba Giscard, the diocesan president of parent associations, described a challenging school year marked by the collapse of the main bridge. This led to the relocation of schools and the flooding of classrooms. Computers and other digital equipment were lost.

In response to the crisis, some schools were relocated to temporary buildings with the help of the diocese and public authorities. However, the need to rebuild the destroyed digital infrastructure remains urgent. The assembly also reviewed progress from previous sessions and renewed ONAPEEC’s leadership team.

How can parents and institutions collaborate to ensure a smooth transition to inclusive and responsible digital education? Let us know in the comments! 😊