In the theater of the Munster Connacht Exhibition, an enlightening lecture took place on Thursday afternoon, presided over by the Most Rev. Dr O’Dwyer, with Miss C. O’Connor-Eccles (Image) as the lecturer. The topic at hand was “The Poor Man’s University,” and it delved into the story of the Peasants’ High School in Askov, Denmark.

Miss C. O’Connor-Eccles began by asserting that the education system in Ireland was somewhat lacking, as it emphasized book learning too heavily and left children ill-equipped for practical life. She went on to describe the educational methods employed at Askov, with a particular emphasis on character formation, which took precedence over book learning. In this system, the goal was to shape well-rounded individuals, with academic pursuits playing a secondary role.

Denmark, despite its small size, had a population of two and a half million people, and Ireland, with its larger population, had the potential to emulate Denmark’s educational success. The credit for Denmark’s educational system was attributed to N.F.S. Grundtvig, who championed education reform and the revival of the native language. The work was continued by Christian Kold, leading to the establishment of the High School at Askov in 1860.

The students who attended this institution later became skilled producers of agricultural goods in Denmark, demonstrating the practicality and effectiveness of this educational approach.

Denmark’s Exemplary Model

The lecture was complemented by limelight views, allowing the audience to visually grasp the concepts discussed. Miss C. O’Connor-Eccles expressed her hope that Ireland would take inspiration from Denmark, which, despite being primarily an agricultural nation like Ireland, managed to overcome educational shortcomings.

She highlighted the fact that Denmark, while lacking millionaires, had a comfortable and prosperous population. She aspired to see the same level of prosperity in Ireland and suggested that the cost of university education there was only two pounds per month.

Denmark’s example showed that it was possible to provide affordable education to the masses, leading to prosperity and a thriving economy. Miss C. O’Connor-Eccles concluded her lecture with applause from the audience.

A Vision for Ireland’s Future

Mr M. O’Callaghan proposed a vote of thanks for the enlightening lecture, which was seconded by Rev. Andrew Murphy, Adm., St. John’s. The audience showed strong approval for Miss C. O’Connor-Eccles’ presentation.

His Lordship, the Most Rev. Dr O’Dwyer, then took the opportunity to address the gathering. He expressed his pride in the Munster Connacht Exhibition as a Limerick native, considering it a remarkable accomplishment. He noted that it was a fine exhibition, entirely Irish in nature, showcasing the work of Irishmen and exemplifying what could be achieved.

The bishop commended the people behind the exhibition for organizing such a diverse and well-organized event. He believed that this exhibition, created by the people themselves, demonstrated their capabilities and potential for success. His Lordship also encouraged people from outside Limerick to visit and support the exhibition, emphasizing its potential to boost industries in the two provinces.

Embracing the Danish System

Turning his attention to the lecture, the Most Rev. Dr O’Dwyer highlighted the success of Danish bacon in the English market. Danish bacon had captured the English market during a dispute in the Limerick bacon trade, and it continued to dominate.

Comparing the education systems of Ireland and Denmark, the bishop stressed the Danish emphasis on practical knowledge and character development. He noted that Danish education sought to impart practical life skills to students while fostering their love for God and their homeland.

The bishop advocated for an education system in Ireland that focused on character development and practical skills, urging that it should not isolate education from religion or national identity. He believed that implementing such principles could transform Ireland and produce industrious, sober, and intelligent citizens.

In conclusion, the Most Rev. Dr O’Dwyer expressed his wish that the principles conveyed by Miss C. O’Connor-Eccles could influence those responsible for Ireland’s educational system. He believed that embracing these principles would bring about a brighter future for Ireland.

A vote of thanks was proposed by Mr John Dundon, solicitor, and seconded by Mr L. Roche, with the audience’s unanimous approval.

Kerry News – Monday 23 July 1906