A MEMORAN­DUM of Under­standing (MoU) to promote religious toler­ance in govern­ment-assisted and private mission schools across the country has been launched in Accra.The document, spearheaded by the National Peace Council (NPC) and the Conference of Managers of Education Units (COMEU) with the support of the Gha­na Education Service (GES), provides clear guidelines for schools to ensure safe, inclusive, and non-discriminatory learning environments while upholding the religious rights of learners.Launching the document yesterday, the Minister for the Interior, Mr Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak, described the initiative as a significant milestone in foster­ing peace, inclusivity, and harmony in the country.He recalled recent incidents of religious misunderstanding and misinformation in some mission schools which, if not addressed, could undermine Ghana's long-standing tradition of peaceful religious coexistence."For decades, the partnership between the government and mission schools has been a cor­nerstone of our education.

These schools, established and nurtured by various religious bodies, have played an unparalleled role in shaping the intellectual, moral, cultural, and progressive develop­ment of our society," the Minister stated."Although the recent incidents are isolated, they pose a risk to the harmony and inclusivity that have long defined our educational landscape, and we cannot allow such challenges to continue," the Mubarak remarked.He called on stakeholders, including religious leaders, edu­cators, parents, and students to embrace the MoU as a shared responsibility."Let us work together to ensure that our mission schools remain peaceful places that inspire hope, unity, and excellence.Let us teach our children not only to excel academically but also to live harmoniously with others, respecting the rich tapestry of be­liefs and cultures that make Ghana unique," he urged.The Deputy Minister of Education, Dr Clement Apaak, stated that the MoU was timely in upholding mutual respect, inclu­sivity, and preventing discrimina­tion based on religious beliefs in schools.He stressed that education re­mained a powerful tool for social cohesion and by fostering envi­ronments where all students could thrive, the very fabric of society would be strengthened."Let us use this document as a springboard to deepen partner­ships, foster dialogue, and build a future where every Ghanaian child can learn in an environment of respect and understanding.Together, we can ensure that our schools remain sanctuaries of peace, learning, and unity," Dr Apaak added.The Board Chairman of the NPC, Most Reverend Emmanuel Kofi Fianu, disclosed that 14 mis­sions had so far signed onto the pact for implementation in their schools.He said the NPC would lead a nationwide sensitisation campaign to ensure that the guidelines were embraced by all stakeholders.BY ABIGAIL ANNOH