Carole Goetz reveals the impact of missions on education in Togo and Alsace

Carole Goetz's thesis, defended at the University of Strasbourg, reveals that missions contributed to the establishment of educational systems in Togo, having a lasting influence on local societies. In 1930, 2,350 missionary fathers in France, a significant number of whom were in Alsace, shaped school and language policies, a crucial issue in the debate on colonial legacy.

Carole Goetz's research examines the interactions between missions and colonial governments in Togo and Alsace, highlighting the impact of school policies on educational structures. Missions, often perceived as vehicles of evangelization, also played a key role in establishing schools, thereby altering the social and cultural dynamics of local societies.

By analyzing the contributions of missions, Goetz demonstrates that they not only introduced Western knowledge but also enabled certain individuals to access positions of power. The missionary fathers established educational systems that have sustainably influenced traditional power structures, thus illustrating the impact of missions on education and culture.

The results of this research underscore the investment opportunity in education in West Africa. Decision-makers should consider collaborations between missions and governments to develop modern educational programs. Although challenges remain, establishing dialogues between stakeholders could create beneficial synergies to maximize the impact of investments.

« « In 1930, there were 2,350 missionary fathers in France, a significant number of whom were in Alsace, who played a decisive role in education in Togo. » »

« « This research highlights the importance of access to knowledge to understand the educational dynamics inherited from missions, a key issue for decision-makers. » »