THE GLOBAL COMPACT ON EDUCATION
By Tanaboon Poonphol PhD.
Catholic education has been a cornerstone of communities for centuries, and our tradition here in Thailand. That’s exactly what Archdiocese School is and has been to our communities.
Catholic education has evolved with it to become a more effective, inclusive and compassionate place for learning and nurturing.
THE GLOBAL COMPACT ON EDUCATION AND YOUNG PEOPLE
On 12 September 2019, Pope Francis surprised everyone once again with another ‘first’: an invitation to a large meeting in May 2020 at the Vatican to shape a Global Compact on Education. This initiative was entirely unprecedented because although addressed to everyone, it was particularly aimed at leaders, those in charge of education and young people as well. For the latter, the Pope had a specific message saying: “I also call upon you, dear young people, to take part in the meeting and to sense your real responsibility for the building of a better world.”
The Pope has two objectives. The first is to revive commitment to the younger generations via an educational venture with the following characteristics: 1) Greater openness and inclusiveness. 2) A readiness to listen with patience, and 3) Dialogue and mutual understanding. His second objective is to discern how we are shaping the planet and to find ways to reverse the fragmentation and breakdown of contemporary society through relationships that are fraternal, harmonious and express solidarity.
The main reason for this mobilisation is what the Pope calls “the breakdown of the compact on education.” The family, schools and society have effectively given up on working together in an integrated manner. They already disagree in regard to the challenge of how to reverse the current “education disaster” whereby nearly 300 million children and young people are deprived of an education. The current education model is flawed and disconnected from reality since its emphasis is on the transfer of knowledge. It displays no interest in moral values or the practice of skills, and lacks any openness to spiritual transcendence. All this has led to this lamentable situation where fraternity is in meltdown, violence is increasing, there is a “globalisation of indifference”, and children and the elderly are affected by a “throwaway culture,” while the environment is subject to senseless exploitation. All this has a profound effect on the education of children, young people and adults.
Embracing Technology
Catholic education is making use of technology in new and innovative ways, from digital textbooks to online learning platforms. In today’s world, students are expected to be tech-savvy and Catholic schools are rising to the challenge, ensuring that students have the skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing job market.
Curriculum Updates
Catholic schools are updating their curricula to reflect the needs of students in the 21st century. From a more in-depth focus on science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) subjects to a more comprehensive understanding of world religions and cultures, Catholic schools are preparing students for a world that demands multicultural cooperation and a mastery of core competencies.
Community Outreach
Faith doesn’t exist in a bubble. It’s meant to be shared and embraced as Christ intended: as a community. Catholic education is leading the charge with a greater emphasis on community outreach and service. Catholic schools encourage students to get involved in their local communities, to volunteer their time and skills, and to make a positive impact in the world.
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