Zamzam Mohamed Raises Concern Over Alleged Violation of Learners’ Religious Rights

Zamzam Mohamed has called for strict adherence to constitutional protections on religious freedom in schools following complaints from parents over the alleged violation of learners’ religious rights at Consolata Primary School.

The Mombasa Woman Representative visited the school after parents raised concerns that some learners were being denied the freedom to practice their faith within the institution.

During the visit, Zamzam Mohamed engaged the school administration and reminded them of their responsibility to ensure that every learner is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness regardless of their religious background.

“As leaders and stakeholders in education, we have a responsibility to ensure that every child feels respected, protected, and free to practice their faith without discrimination,” she said.

The legislator cited a circular issued by the Ministry of Education (Kenya) on March 4, 2022, which clearly states that no learner should be denied admission, punished, or discriminated against on the basis of religion.

The directive further affirms the right of students to wear religious attire, participate in their faith practices, and decline participation in activities that contradict their beliefs.

Zamzam Mohamed said the guidelines were issued to ensure schools uphold the principles of equality and religious freedom as guaranteed under the Constitution.

She emphasised that school administrators must strictly comply with the law and ensure that learning institutions remain inclusive environments for all students.

“Our schools must remain safe and inclusive spaces for every child regardless of their background or beliefs,” she said.

The Woman Representative further reminded the school leadership of their obligation to uphold the provisions of the Constitution of Kenya and the Basic Education Act, which guarantee freedom of religion and protection from discrimination in all learning institutions.

Parents who accompanied the legislator during the visit expressed concern that failure to address such issues could create tension within the school community and negatively affect learners.

Zamzam Mohamed assured them that the matter would be followed up to ensure that the rights of all learners are respected.

She said leaders, parents, and education authorities must work together to protect the welfare and dignity of children in schools.

“We will continue to work closely with parents, school management, and education authorities to ensure that these rights are respected and protected,” she said.

Education stakeholders have increasingly called for stronger enforcement of policies protecting learners’ rights, particularly in matters relating to religion, cultural identity, and equality within schools.

The Mombasa Woman Representative emphasised that protecting the rights of learners must remain a priority for all education institutions.

“The welfare, dignity, and rights of our learners must always come first,” she said.

Her intervention adds to ongoing national conversations about inclusivity and respect for diversity within Kenya’s education system.