The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference and the Christian Council of Ghana have urged that Christian mission schools be permitted to uphold their Christian identity, traditions, and regulations, as debate continues nationally over the rights of Muslim students in these schools.
This follows a Supreme Court case brought against Wesley Girls Senior High School by lawyer Shafic Osman, who claims the school restricts Muslim students from praying, fasting, and observing other aspects of their religion. The Court has given Wesley Girls 14 days to respond and has allowed the civil society group Democracy Hub to participate as amicus curiae.
Meanwhile, Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Ayine has denied allegations of discrimination, stating that the Methodist-affiliated school is entitled to maintain rules based on its Christian ethos, even if this restricts certain religious practices.
In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, November 25, the Christian Council and Catholic Bishops said the debate reflects a misunderstanding of the history and purpose of mission schools. They explained that these schools were established, owned, and operated by churches long before the Ghanaian state existed, and current government support does not grant the state authority to redefine their identity.
They stressed that parents voluntarily choose mission schools for their discipline, moral training, and academic performance. “It is unfair to expect these schools to dilute their Christian character when numerous public, private, and Islamic schools exist,” the statement said.
The groups warned that permitting parallel religious systems—such as separate uniforms, prayer sessions, or worship spaces—could undermine discipline and unity, which are central to mission school success, and could create administrative challenges.
They added that the Constitution protects the right of religious groups to run institutions that reflect their faith, and asking Christian schools to compromise their identity would violate these freedoms.
The statement referenced a 2024 Memorandum of Understanding between the government and mission schools, supported by the National Peace Council, which recognises the role of mission schools and outlines guidelines on fasting, dress codes, and worship while preserving each school’s foundational character.
The Christian leaders said they welcome students of all faiths but must also safeguard the values that define their institutions, framing the defence as vital for religious freedom, institutional autonomy, and educational excellence.
Source: Channelonenewsonline.com
