His Lordship Obed Muriungi Karobia, Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Nairobi, has challenged Catholic school principals, teachers and education stakeholders to go beyond academic achievement and ensure their institutions become places where learners encounter Christ, embrace Christian values and grow into responsible members of society.
The Bishop made the remarks during the closing ceremony of the 11th Edition of the Catholic Schools Principals Association of Kenya (CaSPAK) Conference held at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) in Nairobi.
Addressing participants at the end of the three-day conference, Bishop Karobia said the mission of Catholic educators extends beyond school administration and examination results.
He reminded them that their vocation is part of the Church’s evangelizing mission through education, where learners are formed in faith, virtue and respect for human dignity.
Drawing lessons from the day’s Gospel of the Transfiguration, the Auxiliary Bishop reflected on how the experience of Peter, James and John on Mount Tabor strengthened them to remain faithful during Christ’s Passion.
He encouraged Catholic educators to return to their schools spiritually renewed and prepared to face the challenges of education with fresh commitment and hope.
“The conference has been a moment of renewal,” he said. “Now we must descend from the mountain and put into practice what we have received.”
Bishop Karobia stressed that although academic excellence remains a key component of Catholic education, it should not replace the greater responsibility of helping young people develop a personal relationship with Christ.
“Excellence in academics is important, but that is not enough. If our students leave our schools with impressive certificates and grades but without encountering Christ, we may have fallen short of our unique vocation as Catholic educators,” he said.
He called on school leaders to ensure that all areas of school life, including classroom instruction, discipline, sports and daily engagements, demonstrate the love and values of Christ.
The Bishop noted that Catholic schools are preparing learners in a world marked by rapid technological developments and growing social and economic challenges. He urged educators to focus on producing graduates who are not only academically capable but also morally responsible and spiritually strong.
Bishop Karobia also highlighted the evangelizing role of Catholic institutions, noting that they serve students from different religious backgrounds. He said the Church respects individual freedom and does not force anyone to adopt the Catholic faith, but every learner should leave a Catholic school having encountered Gospel values.
“We are not seeking to convert anybody, but if they are converted, glory be to God. What we need to do is instill values,” he said.
He encouraged Catholic educators to nurture learners who, even after leaving school, can be identified through their integrity, compassion and respect for the dignity of others.
The Auxiliary Bishop further urged principals to embrace leadership that brings transformation rather than focusing only on administration. He called on them to create school environments where truth is promoted, faith is strengthened, hope is preserved and every member of the community is valued.
