- CAN warns that the five-week school closure in four northern states infringes on students’ rights.
- The association urges governors to adopt inclusive policies and dialogue with stakeholders.
- Legal action is being considered if students’ education and constitutional rights remain threatened.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly criticized the decision to shut down schools in Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi States during Ramadan, arguing that it violates students’ constitutional rights.
Beyond educational setbacks, CAN expressed concern over the lack of consultation with religious and educational stakeholders before implementing the closure.
School Closures for Ramadan: A Threat to Educational Equity?
CAN has raised alarm over the extended school closures, arguing that such policies disproportionately affect non-Muslim students and disrupt academic stability. The association highlighted the broader implications, warning that these disruptions could exacerbate the education crisis in northern Nigeria, where the number of out-of-school children is already alarmingly high.
The policy has sparked debates on whether religious observances should take precedence over students’ educational rights. While some argue that Ramadan is a sacred period deserving of full observance, others contend that flexible scheduling—rather than complete shutdowns—strikes a better balance. CAN pointed to international examples where religious and academic commitments coexist without compromising either.
Furthermore, the association criticized the lack of stakeholder consultation, emphasizing that inclusive governance is essential for maintaining religious harmony. The decision, according to CAN, failed to consider the perspectives of Christian leaders, parents, and private school owners, undermining the principles of fairness and equal representation in policymaking.
Legal experts have noted that prolonged school closures for religious reasons could face constitutional challenges. If the affected state governments do not reconsider, CAN has made it clear that it will take legal steps to ensure that students’ education rights are protected, potentially setting a precedent for future policies on religious accommodations in public institutions.
A Call for Balanced Policies in Education
While religious observances are an essential part of cultural identity, they should not come at the expense of fundamental rights like education. The ongoing controversy over school closures during Ramadan underscores the need for policies that respect religious practices while ensuring academic continuity.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” — Nelson Mandela
