CCN shocked at Govt's school Bible studies stance

OSHAKATI MERJA IILEKA

The Council of Churches in Namibian (CCN) has expressed dismay at the government's refusal to reintroduce biblical studies in schools, in the face of the growing immorality among the country's youth.
The council, in a statement on Tuesday, said it was perplexed by the announcement by Education Minister, Dr David Namwandi, that it would be difficult to reintroduce religious studies in a democratically-elected like Namibia.
During a meeting with senior school officials at Ondangwa last week, Namwandi turned down calls to bring back bible studies as a tool to fight the decay in moral and religious values among the youth.
Namwandi reiterated that Namibia is a secular State and as such, will not favour one religion over another.
The council has sought for an audience with the ministry for over two years now. Three letters have been written and numerous phone calls to have discussions on the issue to no avail, said CCN.
It is, therefore, shocking the minister came to the conclusion that a democratically-elected government with specific reference to the Ministry of Education demonstrating a total disregard for the church to pursue open discussions around the issue.
CCN went on to say that despite refusal by government to consider their proposal, it will continue lobbying for the reintroduction of biblical studies in schools, as 90% of the country's citizens regarded themselves as Christians.
It's our strong belief that the escalating moral decay is because young people are exposed to negative immoral decadence and lack of co-operation amongst church, government, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), traditional leaders and community-based organisations (CBOs), the statement read.
The CCN said religion is linked to the education system in some other countries and this inculcated a very strong sense of self-value and dignity.
It is against this background that the CNN and its members churches will remain persistent and hopeful that the doors for open discussion will not be shut and that the right to assembly on religious grounds at schools and higher institutions of learning will not be denied to peace-loving Namibians, the statement said.