The National Peace Council (NPC) has successfully brokered an agreement with mission schools across Ghana on the use of hijabs, promoting religious tolerance and inclusivity in educational institutions nationwide.
Mr. George Amoh, Executive Secretary of the NPC, disclosed that after extensive consultations with mission school heads and other stakeholders, all parties had endorsed the agreement to accommodate religious expression in schools.
“All the mission schools, whether Islamic or Christian, that are involved in education in this country, have embraced the agreement and endorsed the document,” he stated.
Mr. Amoh made this known during a familiarization visit by the Minister of the Interior, Mr. Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, in Accra. He further noted that the Ghana Education Service (GES) was yet to give its formal endorsement before the agreement could be officially launched.
The use of hijabs in mission schools has been a long-standing issue in Ghana, with previous restrictions on Muslim students wearing the headscarf sparking national debates on religious freedom and discrimination.
In 2015, the Peace Council initiated dialogue with religious groups and mission schools after reports emerged of some institutions preventing Muslim students from wearing hijabs. A communique was developed at the time, outlining steps to foster religious harmony, but its implementation faced challenges, including financial and administrative barriers.
“When the issue of Wesley Girls’ Senior High School arose in 2021 regarding Muslim students being denied the opportunity to fast during Ramadan, we decided to revisit the campaign,” Mr. Amoh explained.
The newly developed agreement does not only address hijab use but also provides guidelines on religious practices such as fasting and the display of religious symbols in schools. It seeks to ensure that students’ rights to religious expression are upheld while maintaining institutional discipline.
“This document answers the critical question: What should be the conduct of a student in a school that does not subscribe to their religious beliefs?” Mr. Amoh noted. He emphasized that the agreement aligns with Ghana’s constitutional provisions on religious freedom and association.
The GES has been involved in drafting the document, but formal approval from its new leadership is still required before public implementation. Mr. Amoh expressed optimism that once enforced, the agreement would prevent future disputes over religious practices in schools and promote mutual respect and coexistence.
“The Constitution of Ghana guarantees freedom of association, religion, and the right to practice one’s faith. This agreement ensures that schools reflect these constitutional values while maintaining order and discipline,” he added.
Minister Muntaka commended the NPC for its relentless efforts in promoting peace and religious harmony in Ghana.
“As I stand before you, I am reminded of the crucial role the Peace Council plays in fostering national cohesion. The organization exemplifies the importance of peace and reconciliation in nation-building,” he remarked.
He assured the Council of his support to enhance its capacity in executing its mandate effectively.