Berkley Center

In this presentation Rev. Eugene Goussikindey, S.J. emphasized the linguistic and national diversity in Africa, as well as the challenges of life on a continent marked by high levels of cultural and religious pluralism. While acknowledging widespread famine, unparalleled levels of poverty, and endemic civil wars and government corruption, Goussikindey nevertheless underscored that Africa's problems coexist with a widespread optimism and hope for the future. As the quality of education grows and its scope spreads, he suggested, a new generation of Africans will likely emerge as critical citizens determined to help their countries pursue the paths of economic growth and democratic stability established elsewhere in the world.