…Says misconceptions discouraging students from studying subject
By Austine Agbo Emmanuel, Kaduna
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory has called for a deliberate change in how Christian Religious Studies (CRS) is perceived and presented in schools, warning that misconceptions are discouraging students from pursuing the subject.
Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, made this appeal on Tuesday at a one-day symposium organised by the Department of Christian Religious Studies, Faculty of Arts, Kaduna State University, in Kaduna.
Speaking on the theme “Revitalising the Study of Christian Religion in the Digital Generation”, Hayab criticised the narrow portrayal of CRS as a pathway only for aspiring pastors or church workers, describing the stereotype as harmful to its growth and relevance within Nigeria’s education system.
“Christian Religious Studies is not just about church. It is about humanity, morality, and peaceful living. What sociology does, CRS also does. A graduate of CRS can study peace and conflict resolution or other disciplines. The challenge is that we have failed to present it properly. We must shift the narrative,” he said.
Hayab called on government authorities to encourage the study of CRS in schools by recruiting more qualified teachers, particularly across northern Nigeria. He emphasised that CRS should be recognised as a versatile discipline that promotes peace, psychology, governance, and human relationships.
He further explained that professionals across sectors perform better when they understand religion, as it instils accountability and moral discipline. “Religion goes beyond prayers. A doctor, a banker, or a manager with knowledge of religion will live and work more responsibly. That is why no serious government can ignore religion in schools,” he added.
The CAN leader commended the recent moves by some northern governors to reinstate CRS in public schools, describing the policy as an acknowledgment that moral education is central to tackling social decay.
Hayab also challenged churches, educators, and other stakeholders to repackage CRS to attract young learners and counter stereotypes. “If parents truly love their children, they should encourage them to study CRS. Not everyone wants to be a pastor, but everyone needs values. We must reframe CRS as a tool for building disciplined and peace-loving citizens,” he stated.
He appealed to development partners to invest in CRS education, noting that religion has historically been the foundation of health, education, and social growth in many societies.
“Religion is the engine room of development. It is not just about God and church. We must deliberately shift the narrative and promote CRS as a course that builds peace, shapes character, and strengthens nation-building,” Hayab concluded.
