This archive report was first published on 9 September 2021.
As we reflect on the importance of freedom of worship in Kenyan schools, it is essential to acknowledge the country's rich religious diversity. The Constitution of Kenya, promulgated 11 years ago, enshrines the right to freedom of worship, and this right is also reflected in the national anthem.
However, disturbing stories have emerged of how some schools and teachers fail to respect this right, leading to religious intolerance and provocation. In some cases, teachers have been known to destroy symbols of other religions, which is not only unacceptable but also counterproductive to building a harmonious nation.
The government has clear policies on religious worship in schools, which are designed to protect the freedom of worship of all students. These policies are domesticated in schools, ensuring that teachers and support staff are aware of and respect them. Additionally, Kenya's religious plurality is something to be promoted in our schools, and interreligious dialogue and ecumenical scholars and advocates find great value in sharing religious diversity, including religious symbols.
It is essential that teachers are conversant with the basic rights of children in school, including their right to freedom of worship. Any religious dissatisfactions should be left to the school administration to provide guidance. In the 21st century, it is unacceptable for teachers to sow seeds of religious intolerance, and destroying religious symbols of children is a senseless religious provocation.
As we move forward, it is crucial that our leaders ensure that teachers understand the basic rights of children in school, including their right to freedom of worship. This will help promote a culture of respect, tolerance, and understanding in our schools and beyond.
Dr. Mokua, executive director of the Loyola Centre for Media and Communications, emphasizes the importance of promoting religious co-existence in schools. He notes that both religious leaders and the government have done exceptionally well in promoting religious co-existence, and it is time that our leaders ensured that teachers understand the basic rights of children in school.
Figure 1: Samuel Ngira, a mathematics teacher at Nairobi Pentecostal Church Academy, with his class seven pupils.
