On St. Daniel Comboni Day, Catholic Bishop in South Sudan Recalls Saint’s “vision” for Education to Empower Africans

Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio (CDTY) in South Sudan (aciafrica)

His motto, “Save Africa with Africa,” demonstrated the essence of the trust he had in the people of God in Africa.

The Italian missionary Bishop, who has continued to inspire those attracted to missionary life was canonized in 2003, with October 10 as his Feast Day.

In his message shared with ACI Africa on October 10, Bishop Hiiboro highlights what he describes as “The Importance of Practical and Values Based Education” as vitally essential in the world’s newest country that gained independence from Sudan in July 2011.

“In a rapidly changing world, above all our fragile nation of South Sudan, education must blend practical skills with strong moral foundations. As Nelson Mandela said, ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.’ Let us instill in our students the values of hard work and respect, fostering collaboration and unity,” he says.

The South Sudanese Catholic Bishop adds, “As we move forward as a Diocese in the field of providing quality education, let us remember that education is not solely about academic achievement; it is about forming hearts and minds in the light of God’s truth.”

“Together, may we strive to empower the future through quality education,” the Local Ordinary of CDTY since his Episcopal Consecration in June 2008 says recalling the theme of Comboni Day 2024, and calls for the building of South Sudan “grounded in faith” and nurturing a society that seeks to realize “the peace and unity that Christ desires for us all.”

He goes on to highlight the role of various education stakeholders in his Episcopal See.

To teachers, Bishop Hiiboro, says, “You are the architects of knowledge and virtue. Your dedication to nurturing both intellect and spirit is vital. You inspire resilience, responsibility, and respect, and your lessons will resonate throughout your students’ lives.”

Turning his attention to parents, he says, “You are the first educators. Your influence shapes your children's values and character. Your commitment to fostering a love for learning lays a strong foundation for their future.”

The Local Ordinary of CDTY, who doubles as the President of the Integral Human Development Commission of the Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SCBC) tells learners that they are “leaders of today, now and tomorrow.”

“Embrace education not just as a means to an end, but as a powerful tool for change. Philippians 4:13 reminds us, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’ Use your education to pursue excellence and uphold values of honesty, peace, and unity,” Bishop Hiiboro says in his message on Comboni Day 2024.

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Source: https://www.aciafrica.org/news/12447/on-st-daniel-comboni-day-catholic-bishop-in-south-sudan-recalls-saints-vision-for-education-to-empower-africans