Religion and Education

By Nnamdi Edu

The more I think of religion and education, the more interest I have in Christian Educational leadership. One may not fathom the relevance of religion in education until such person is enlightened by the Holy Spirit. The primary role of the Holy Spirit is to lead men and women to the Truth (John 16:13). I have witnessed many people of different religious views, rolling out hate speeches against other religions. As a result, most of the governments have declined vehemently from allowing religious education in the public schools. Every mind would accept the prompting of the Holy Spirit as it regards what to teach and learn. The education sector should include religious studies in their curriculum to serve as a medium for character development.

Religion is very important. How do we live with each other in this world? Even in a world of religious pluralism. Certainly, there is a need for different people to interact with one another for the purpose of coexistence. Everyone in the world needs to get a grasp on each religious affiliation in order to comprehend the different views people have and enables tolerance for each other.

The children that we send to school need to be educated about the major religions. We have in the world: Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Judaism. A little knowledge of the world religions could lead to the condemnation of other religions. The knowledge of these religions, their practice and belief systems are made known to the public or individuals through education. I appreciate countries that integrate religious education into their curriculum.

The school administrator whose primary role is curriculum management should endeavor to ensure that the curriculum is properly planned, designed and implemented according to the philosophy upon which the school is established. Indeed, the curriculum should be underpinned by various religious views with much emphasis on Christianity in order to retain the values of Christian Education.

Friends, I encourage every reader of this piece to integrate religion in their discipline which will foster holistic relationship among friends or colleagues within that particular discipline. A Muslim, Christian e.t.c., can live without an atom of violence if they become mindful of what constitutes a particular religion. There will be no aggressive rejection of one’s opinion concerning his religion. Study religion in order to live peacefully with all men. (Romans 12:18).