Accra, (Greater Accra) 17 Oct.,

The Ghana Muslim Students' Association (GSMA) has expressed concern about the discriminatory practices by heads of some public schools which deny Muslim students the freedom of religion and the right to education. In a statement issued in Accra yesterday, the association complained that there are reports indicating that in some second cycle institutions and training colleges, particularly in Ashanti, the submission of a baptismal certificate is a pre-requisite for admission. The statement said as a result of this practice, Muslim students whose religion or belief does not entertain baptism, are denied admission. "This is discrimination against Muslims who are citizens of this country because such schools are funded by the tax-payers money. We see this as a direct attempt to deny us the right to education", the association said. The association also claimed that in some public schools Muslim students are forced to attend Christian church service against their will and the will of their parents. The statement said there are many schools under the Islamic Education Unit which are attended by Muslims and non-Muslims without any discrimination whatsoever, adding that no rpt no student is forced to practise the Islamic faith. "The GMSA", the statement said, "therefore condemns such 'divisionist and discriminatory practices' and calls on heads of such schools to desist from the practice". "It should be realised that both qualitative and quantitative education for all citizens of Ghana, irrespective of their faith, is crucial if the country is to move forward and achieve the objectives of 'Vision 2020'. the statement added.