Wesley Girls’ High School sued over compulsory religious practices

A legal battle has commenced against Wesley Girls’ High School and the Ghana Education Service over allegations of religious discrimination.

Shafic Osman, a concerned citizen, has filed a writ at the Supreme Court, challenging the school’s policy that compels all students to participate in Methodist religious activities, including compulsory chapel services.

The writ, filed on December 15th, 2024, argues that this policy violates the constitutional rights of Muslim students. It seeks several declarations, including:

• Violation of Constitutional Rights: That the school’s policy contravenes the 1992 Constitution, particularly articles related to freedom of religion, freedom from discrimination, and the prohibition of the establishment of religion.
• Unlawful Discrimination: That the policy’s restrictions on Muslim students’ religious practices constitute unlawful discrimination.
• Undermining Student Welfare: That the policy undermines the welfare of Muslim students by infringing upon their fundamental rights.
• Establishment of Religion: That the compulsory participation in Methodist religious activities amounts to the establishment of religion within a public institution, which is unconstitutional.

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The writ also seeks an order restraining the school and the Education Service from enforcing this policy and directing the Education Service to develop constitutionally compliant guidelines for religious practice in public schools.

This legal action has significant implications for religious freedom and the rights of minority groups in the country.

The outcome of this case will have a profound impact on how religious practices are addressed within the country’s public education system.

Background:

Wesley Girls’ High School, a prestigious Methodist mission school, has a long-standing tradition of incorporating Christian religious practices into its curriculum. However, this policy has drawn criticism from some quarters, particularly from Muslim parents and organizations who argue that it infringes upon the religious rights of Muslim students.

This legal challenge marks a significant step in addressing these concerns and seeking a resolution that upholds the constitutional rights of all students.

Note: This story is based on the information attached below and may not reflect all the nuances of the legal case.

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