Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike—Founder and President of the Catholic Institute for Development, Justice, Peace and Caritas (CIDJAP) and Professor of Ethics and Intercultural Studies at Godfrey Okoye University, presented a policy paper on 24th September, 2025 at the Istanbul Conference on Economics and Society (ISTCES2025), hosted by the Department of Economics, Ibn Haldun University, Turkey. The conference ran from September 24-26, 2025 under the theme: “Pathways to Inclusive Growth: Overcoming Challenges in Developing and Emerging African Countries.”
In his address, Msgr. Prof. Ike outlined a practical pathway for people-centered growth across Africa. He called for more substantial investment in human capital—education, skills, and healthcare—so that young people and communities can thrive. He urged targeted support for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, with special attention to women and rural populations, so that opportunity reaches those who are often left behind.
He emphasized the need for reliable infrastructure and digital connectivity to bridge the urban–rural gap. He encouraged transparent and accountable governance, local participation in decision-making, and fair access to justice and public services. He also emphasized climate-smart policies—such as renewable energy, resilient agriculture, and circular economy practices—to protect livelihoods and create new jobs.
Throughout the paper, Msgr. Prof. Ike argued for simple feedback systems that measure real outcomes—jobs created, incomes raised, and poverty reduced—so programmes can improve over time. He said that inclusive growth is not only an economic goal but also a moral duty, linking ethical reflection with workable steps that governments, universities, faith groups, civil society, and businesses can take together.
Delegates welcomed the clarity of the framework and its focus on action. The presentation drew interest from scholars, policymakers, and development partners seeking tested ideas that can be adapted to local contexts.
Msgr. Prof. Ike’s participation reflects his long service in ethics, social development, and education. In addition to leading CIDJAP, he serves as Professor of Ethics and Intercultural Studies at Godfrey Okoye University and contributes to policy as Pro-Chancellor of the Enugu State University of Medical and Applied Sciences.
