MoU on religious tolerance will protect students’ rights – Dr. Apaak

Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, has assured that the new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on religious tolerance will protect the rights of students across Ghana’s schools.

Speaking at the launch of the MoU to Guide Religious Tolerance in Government-Assisted and Private Schools in Ghana at the Mensvic Hotel in Accra, Dr. Apaak said the MoU on religious tolerance is a timely intervention aimed at preventing discrimination and ensuring that every student, regardless of faith, enjoys equal respect in the classroom.

He explained that the MoU on religious tolerance provides a practical framework for resolving conflicts that sometimes arise in mission schools and other government-assisted institutions. The Deputy Minister said this will create an environment where learners feel valued and free to pursue academic success without fear of bias.

“Education must remain a sacred space. Every child, no matter their religious background, deserves to feel respected and supported to achieve their full potential. This MoU is a safeguard for that principle,” Dr. Apaak emphasized.

He acknowledged that misunderstandings in some schools in recent years made it necessary for government and religious missions to find common ground. With clear guidelines now in place, he believes schools will be better equipped to manage diversity while promoting peace and discipline.

Dr. Apaak added that the Ministry of Education will work closely with stakeholders, including the Ghana Education Service, the National Peace Council, and mission authorities, to roll out awareness programmes so that the MoU’s provisions are well understood.

He urged parents, communities, and students themselves to support the initiative, describing it as a collective responsibility to protect harmony in education.