Education Minister Reaffirms Commitment to Religious Freedom in Schools

The Minister for Education, speaking during parliamentary debate on the national budget, has strongly condemned restrictions placed on Muslim students at Wesley Girls’ High School, describing them as inconsistent with both Ghana’s constitution and international human rights standards.

Addressing the Speaker and Members of Parliament, the Minister emphasized that the issue touches on fundamental freedoms guaranteed under Articles 33, 5, and 26(1) of the 1992 Constitution. He stressed that no Ghanaian child should be denied the right to profess or practice their faith.

“We have a duty to uphold the rights of every Ghanaian child and every Ghanaian citizen. No right is divisible, and we will not countenance any action by any person to deny any Ghanaian girl the opportunity to profess or practice any religion,” the Minister declared.

The remarks come amid ongoing debate over policies at Wesley Girls’ High School that have reportedly restricted Muslim students from observing certain religious practices. The controversy has sparked national discussion on the balance between institutional rules and constitutional freedoms.

The Minister assured Parliament that government remains committed to protecting the rights of all students, regardless of their religious background, and pledged that measures will be taken to ensure schools comply with constitutional provisions.

Observers note that the statement could mark a turning point in Ghana’s education sector, where questions of inclusivity and respect for diversity have increasingly come to the fore.

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