By: Ginaba Lino
The Sudan and South Sudan Bishops’ Conference has officially announced the establishment of a new commission dedicated to Catholic education, with the appointment of its coordinator expected soon.
His Eminence Stephen Martin Cardinal Ameyu Mulla, President of the Sudan and South Sudan Bishops’ Conference, emphasized that the commission aims to raise educational standards across Catholic schools while fostering moral and spiritual formation among young people.
“The Commission’s coordinator will be appointed soon,” Cardinal Ameyu stated. “This initiative will enhance educational standards and promote moral and spiritual development, helping to improve the quality of education while deepening students’ understanding of the Catholic faith. We are committed to nurturing future leaders grounded in the teachings of Christ.”
“The Commission will support not only educational excellence but also enrich the spiritual lives of students. We hope this will help our young people grow in faith, along with knowledge.”
In the same extraordinary meeting, the bishops also discussed the tenure of the Catholic University of South Sudan, nominating a new Vice Chancellor whose name will be announced soon. Cardinal Ameyu underscored the importance of leadership in higher education, acknowledging the work of the current Vice Chancellor, Fr. Matthew Pagan, who will continue in his position until the end of 2025.
“The new Vice Chancellor will take office soon. We thank Fr. Pagan for his service and commitment to the university’s growth,” said Cardinal Ameyu.
Additionally, the bishops addressed staffing needs at the Paul Major Seminary, highlighting the crucial role of qualified staff in forming future priests. Cardinal Ameyu emphasized that the quality of the seminary directly impacts the future of the Church, stressing the importance of attracting dedicated educators to provide comprehensive formation for seminarians.
“We must invest in quality staff at the seminary to ensure that we form future priests who are well-prepared to serve the Church.”
The three-day extraordinary meeting also reviewed the 2024 Bishops’ Plenary meeting held at the Good Shepherd Peace Center in Kit, which focused on the theme “One Body, One Spirit in Christ.”