The Methodist Church Ghana has issued a press release addressing the controversy surrounding Wesley Girls’ High School (WGHS), a Methodist institution in Cape Coast, regarding its policy on religious practices within the school environment.
According to the release dated November 28, 2023, the Methodist Church reiterated that WGHS, as a government-assisted school, is mandated to uphold its Methodist identity and traditions while respecting Ghana’s constitutional provisions for religious freedom. The church emphasized that its mission schools are founded on Christian principles aimed at holistic development, and that all students are expected to adhere to the school’s moral and disciplinary standards, which are rooted in its Methodist character.
The statement comes in response to concerns raised about the school’s restrictions on students’ religious activities, particularly regarding Muslim students’ prayer practices. The church clarified that while it respects all faiths, the school’s policies are guided by its foundational Christian ethos and the need to maintain a unified environment. It referenced the 1992 Constitution’s guarantee of religious freedom, asserting that the school’s approach aligns with legal and educational guidelines.
The Methodist Church also highlighted its commitment to dialogue and collaboration with all stakeholders to ensure respect for diverse religious and traditional practices. The release was signed by the Presiding Bishop and Chairman of the WGHS Board, affirming the school’s dedication to Christian and moral formation.
The incident has sparked broader discussions about religious freedom and inclusivity in Ghanaian educational institutions, with calls for a balanced approach that respects both institutional religious identity and individual rights.