The Study of African Traditional Religion in Schools in Ghana: A Historical Perspective

Abstract: African Traditional Religion (ATR) exists with a wide variety of beliefs and customs. Sadly, these beliefs and customs are not exhaustively documented to be used as references. People only adopt the religious beliefs and customs that are upheld or followed in their families and communities. These customs have been passed on by ancestors, and each generation adopts them with adjustments appropriate to its own needs and historical circumstances. As a result, the conscious study of the religion has received academic attention over centuries. The intent of this paper is to look at how the academic study of ATR evolved. The paper also sheds light on the various approaches that have been developed over the years for the study of the subject. Critical attention is as well drawn to the implication for students’ interests in the study of the subject and its relevance to both tutors and student-teachers of ‘Religious and Moral Education’ in Colleges of Education in Ghana. To achieve this goal, secondary data was gathered through library research approach that furnished this study with rich information. The findings of this study revealed that ATR became a legitimate academic subject due to the combined efforts of teachers in schools and writers. It is one of the key courses provided by religious studies departments in universities, colleges, and research institutions. In higher institutions in Ghana, for example, at the diploma, bachelor, master's, and doctoral levels, students are free to major in ATR