The Methodist Church Ghana, following the directive by the Ghana Education Service (GES) to Wesley Girls High School authorities to allow students who wish to fast do so, has maintained that it will continue to act in accordance with its laid down rules.
In a communique dated May 4, 2021, the Methodist Church noted that the rule which is expected to be sidestepped according to the GES’ directive, is the same which has regulated the school since its existence, contributing to its good reputation.
“The school rule in question is a long standing one which is also non-religious and various renowned Muslim ladies in Ghana have passed through the school adhering to such a rule.
“The policies of the school over the 186 years of its existence have resulted in Wesley Girls High School being the school of choice. Existence and Achievement and the church remains in full support of these policies,” the statement signed and issued by the Presiding Bishop Right Reverend Michael A. Bossman noted.
The Church therefore by the statement is unwilling to comply with the directive, saying that it “cannot accede to the unilateral directive issued by the Ghana Education Service and insists that the Ghana Education Service respects the long standing partnership between the government and Mission schools.”
About the fasting in question
Few days ago it was reported that the Wesley Girls High School Headmistress refused to grant some students the opportunity to observe the 30-day Ramadan fast.
Among the reasons given for the restriction was that students are liable to suffering stomach ulcers and other complications due to the demanding nature of their academic works.
It instigated discussions among the publics where some expressed disappointment at the school, arguing that the complications affect the student, but not the school for which reason they should be allowed to observe their religious rights.
The GES as result issued a directive asking the school to permit the students to observe the fast with a notice to parents that they “write to the school indicating that the school shall not be held liable for any health conditions of the student as a result of the fast” which the Methodist Church Ghana refuses to yield to.
