Uganda: Legislators Disagree on Religious Studies

May 14, 2008

Author: Staff Writer

Source: All Africa/New Vision

http://allafrica.com/stories/200805140045.html

TO teach or not to teach religious education as a compulsory subject in primary and secondary schools was at the centre of debate yesterday as MPs considered the Education Bill 2007.

While some argued that it was necessary for the student's holistic growth, others contended that it would unnecessarily burden students with another compulsory subject.

The latter argued that religious studies should at most be compulsory up to primary level and remain optional in secondary school.

Presenting the social services committee report, committee chairman James Kubeketerya supported the clause in the Bill that read: "Religious studies approved by the Government shall be compulsorily taught in primary and post-primary schools for purposes of producing disciplined, responsible and morally conscience citizens."