Girls in Africa receive education thanks to the inspiration of Saint Bakhita

Despite the difficult socioeconomic and cultural conditions that prevent many girls from growing academically in Africa, an ecclesiastical organization—inspired by the figure of Saint Josephine Bakhita—helps more than 3,000 girls in 80 Catholic schools to improve.

The Jesuit priest Charles Chilufya, in a conversation with Vatican Newshighlighted the work of the Bakhita Association for Education (BPE) in 5 countries on the continent, helping vulnerable girls reintegrate into school systems so they can obtain a quality education.

Furthermore, Father Chilufya highlighted the urgent need to “create environments that empower girls and ensure their safety,” especially in the countries of Kenya, Malawi, Uganda, Tanzania and Zambia.

“Pope Francis has often spoken of the value of education as a tool of hope and healing, especially in contexts of conflict and crisis,” said the Jesuit. “The efforts of the Bakhita Association for Education go beyond the classroom. It provides psychosocial support and fosters an environment in which girls can develop safely and confidently,” he added.

For her part, Zambian nun Bertha Chisanga, coordinator of the association, told Vatican media that the country’s schools that participate in the project report fewer dropouts, better academic performance and a decrease in the numbers of pregnancies and early marriages among girls. of Zambia.

In addition, Vatican News reported that the nun expressed “that the creation of transformative, inclusive and adapted educational opportunities to provide girls with the necessary tools for their personal and social progress is important for societies that aspire to create a safe environment for them. ”.

The initiative began in 2021. In each country it adjusts to the government’s educational objectives and its work has earned it the support of various international organizations. Father Chilufya highlighted the importance of these strategic educational partnerships.

“Our commitment is unwavering,” she stated, and commented that they are “dedicated to reaching more girls, transforming more lives and advocating for a world in which all children have the opportunity to learn and grow.”

Finally, he recalled the inspiration of the project in Saint Josephine Bakhita, who “overcame her painful past of slavery to become a symbol of freedom and dignity”, making her a great example for the girls and members of the association, who strive for guaranteeing a good education to those who need it most.

Who was Saint Josephine Bakhita?

Santa Josefina Bakhita She was born in 1869 in Sudan and was kidnapped by slave traders at the age of nine. Sold several times, she suffered torture and humiliation, but she found a good deal when bought by an Italian merchant. She was taken to Italy, where she entered the novitiate of the Institute of the Sisters of Charity and she learned about Christianity.

Bakhita was baptized in 1890, taking the name Josefina Margarita Afortunada. Her faith and humility led her to join the Sisters of Canossa in 1893. She worked as a cook and caretaker, gaining a reputation for holiness.

She died in 1947 and was canonized by Pope Saint John Paul II in 2000, becoming a symbol of reconciliation and mercy for Africans and Christians. Her life represents the story of suffering and redemption of many African women.