The Methodist Church of Ghana has categorically denied allegations of religious discrimination at Wesley Girls High School (WGHS), asserting that the school’s enduring traditions are lawful, inclusive, and essential for fostering unity and discipline.
In a statement issued on Friday, November 28, the Church responded to reports concerning a Supreme Court case, Shafic Osman v. The Board of Governors, Attorney-General & Ghana Education Service. Although it has not yet received formal notification, the Church indicated that it is taking measures to acquire official documents to allow its legal team to respond appropriately.
The Church stressed that assertions depicting WGHS as a “public school” involved in discriminatory practices are baseless. Since its establishment in 1836 by Harriet Wrigley, the school has aimed to develop the “Head, Heart and Hand” of the girl-child, irrespective of race, religion, creed, or background.
Emphasising nearly two centuries of educating students from various faiths—including Muslims, Adventists, Catholics, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Eckists, Buddhists, Hindus, atheists, and agnostics, the Church pointed out that many alumni have gone on to make significant contributions to society. This, it stated, reflects Methodist teachings that discrimination is inconsistent with Christian values.
The Church further clarified that the government support provided to faith-based schools in the early 1960s did not change WGHS’s Methodist identity. The school has consistently professed its Christian foundation, as evidenced by its motto, “Live Pure, Speak True, Right Wrong, Follow the King”, and its school hymn, which underscores a commitment to Christian and moral development.
Admitted students are expected to honour the traditions of the school and adhere to a framework established to foster uniformity, discipline, order, and a shared experience. The Church contended that as enrolment rises and diversity increases, it is essential to maintain a cohesive structure for all students to live, study, worship, and engage together.
While acknowledging students’ constitutional right to practice their faith, the Church argued that establishing parallel systems—such as distinct routines for eating, sleeping, worship, or studying, would result in segregation and undermine the collective culture of the school.
The Church referenced the Memorandum of Understanding signed on April 15, 2024, by the Conference of Managers of Education Units (COMEU) and facilitated by the National Peace Council. Supported by prominent Christian organisations and Muslim leadership, including the Office of the National Chief Imam and the Ahmadiyya Mission, the MOU offers a framework for fostering harmony in mission schools, which WGHS continues to uphold.
In conclusion, the Methodist Church expressed gratitude for the public support received from the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference, the Christian Council of Ghana, the Anglican Church, and other ecumenical groups that have issued statements in solidarity.
