In New Wineskins: The Economy of Communion as a Model for Catholic Business Schools in Africa—The Case of the University Institute of the Diocese of Buea (UIDB), Cameroon

Abstract

In order to address the many challenges the world faces, new solutions are needed. This article explores how the Bishop of Buéa, Cameroon created a University inspired by the Focolare movement’s interdisciplinary paradigm and economic vision known as the Economy of Communion (EoC). In addition, the article presents some of the main cultural elements of the new paradigm and showcase how one university’s experience has institutionalized an EoC business school model and the challenges faced in this process. This unique connection between the EoC and Catholic business schools in Africa may also serve to advance the work of strengthening mission driven Catholic business education that is currently being researched, discussed, and implemented in the US and worldwide.