THIS DEBATE on why faith-based schools always seem to perform better than secular schools has gone on for quite a while and this week Education Times joins the fray. We dive into the issue to expose what it is that these schools do quite well that others find difficult to emulate.

Why do these schools perform so well year in year out? It has become almost unheard of for top performing schools to be announced without the mention of a Petit Seminaire or other faith-based school. The easier answer is the way the issue of discipline is handled in these schools. There are no compromises. It is seen as the foundation for everything and students have few options. They either shape up or shape out. With time a tradition of discipline yields one of success and more parents envy to have their children in these schools but their children are reminded of how tough it is to keep in these schools if discipline is not given due attention. Owners of private/secular schools must wondering what they need to do right in order to match their faith-based peers on the path to academic success. My advice would be a reversal of priorities. Instead of focusing on profits the focus should be turned to discipline as it is this that will engender the environment for success. Once the results are good a school will be overwhelmed with applications and can then charge more for that good quality education. Secular schools also have to pick a leaf from the faith-based schools and strive to offer holistic education. Success is not achieved by forcing students to spend all the time memorising every single word in their books. Education is much wider than just examinations. Co-curricular and extracurricular events are equally important.The good thing is that indeed there are some secular schools that are already performing well and a visit will reveal that they seem to be reading from the same book as the faith-based schools. They too are tough on learners’ discipline. Discipline is the key to success not only in school but life in general and so it should never be compromised. We welcome all suggestions and feedback sent  through  the editor at this email: education@newtimes.co.rw