Allow Mission Schools to Operate by Their Guided Values, Advocates Urge

Accra: Advocates for Christ Ghana (A4CG), a movement dedicated to promoting godly values in public policy and national development, has expressed strong support for the Christian Council of Ghana's call to allow mission schools to operate according to their foundational values. According to Ghana News Agency, A4CG has joined forces with other Christian organizations, including the Ghana Catholic Bishops' Conference and the Anglican Church of Ghana, to emphasize the historical role of mission schools in shaping the moral and educational landscape of the nation. These institutions have been guided by principles that promote discipline, excellence, and godliness. A statement from A4CG's Educational arm, signed by Chairman Edem Senanu, criticized remarks made by the Minister of Education in Parliament regarding religious rights at Wesley Girls High School. The statement argued that such comments distort the constitutional principle of religious impartiality and could potentially breach the duty of neutrality e xpected from public officials serving a multi-faith society like Ghana. The statement highlighted Ghana's long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims, a harmony fostered by mutual respect and the freedom to establish schools reflecting each faith's values. A4CG warned against characterizing the enforcement of mission schools' policies as oppressive or contrary to religious freedoms, noting that attendance at these schools is voluntary. Moreover, the group pointed out that both Islamic and Christian mission schools enforce internal rules aligned with their respective faiths, and Christian mission schools have historically achieved academic and moral excellence through structures that include religious discipline and health-conscious policies. The 1992 Constitution ensures freedom of religion and association, including through faith-based institutions. A4CG expressed its rejection of any attempts to dilute the identity of Christian mission schools and called on the Ministry of Education to clarify its commitment to neutrality, institutional autonomy, and respect for the diverse religious traditions in Ghana. The group urged the Ministry to consult with all faith-based stakeholders before making public statements and to reaffirm its commitment to non-interference in mission schools' internal regulations. A4CG also reminded the Ministry of a 2016 promise to return mission schools to their founding churches and missions and urged it to act as a neutral arbiter, safeguarding the rights, freedoms, and dignity of all learners, regardless of their religious background. The statement concluded by urging all Ghanaians, regardless of faith, to preserve national unity and peace by resisting narratives that undermine institutions built on decades of service and excellence.