Editor, I would like to make clarifications on the article, “Minister call for religious studies in school Curricula” (Sunday Times, December 15). I wish to add that there was no deliberate call for incorporation of religious studies in school curricula – it is a matter of being quoted out of context.Nevertheless, 1. The Government of Rwanda encourages private investment in the education sector and appreciates the excellent relationship which characterises this partnership with all faith-based organizations;2. The Seventh Day Adventist Church’s interests in education grew from the philosophy that students, at all levels of education, are uniquely valuable persons and should be educated to use their God-given capacities to become individuals of principle, qualified for any position of life. Mental, physical, social, spiritual health and intellectual growth and service to humanity form a core of values that are essential aspects to the development of the country;3. Many faith-based schools are characterised by discipline, good leadership and are a real role models in building quality education. We also believe that some of the ways to handle the challenges which hinder this sector, provision of regular and high quality in-service training, continuous professional development, conducive up to date teacher management and overall professional support are key to a consistent high performance. Mathias Harebamungu (PhD), Minister of State in Charge of Primary and Secondary Education
