Coalition of Islamic Organisations, Ghana (CIHOG) Condemns Restrictions on Muslim Students in Mission Schools

The Coalition of Islamic Organisations, Ghana (CIHOG), has expressed concern over reports of restrictions on Muslim students’ religious practices in some mission schools across the country. In a press statement signed by Administrator Sulemana Alhassan Atakpo, CIHOG stated that such restrictions are a direct violation of Ghana’s constitutional order and historical agreements governing the management of mission schools.

CIHOG emphasized that the missions had voluntarily handed over their schools to the government, recognizing that education is a national responsibility and should be financed, supervised, and protected by the state. The coalition argued that it is unacceptable for mission schools to deny Muslim children their constitutional right to pray, fast, or dress modestly.

The statement cited Articles 21(1)(c), 17(2), and 25(1)(a) of Ghana’s Constitution, which guarantee freedom of religion, prohibit discrimination, and ensure access to education without discrimination.

CIHOG demanded that the Ministry of Education and Ghana Education Service (GES) put an end to discriminatory practices against Muslim students in mission schools and called for a review of the mission-school partnership framework to align it with Ghana’s constitutional provisions.

“Respect for religious diversity is not optional. It is the law,” the statement concluded.