In Poland, the subject of religion will only be taught at half the rate from next school year. If the Liberal government has its way, this should only happen during off-peak hours. It’s about “common sense”.
Education Minister Barbara Nowacka signed a regulation on Friday under which religious education can only be taught for one hour per week – instead of two hours.
In addition, all public schools, with the exception of primary schools, should only offer the elective in the first or last hour of the day, so that students who do not participate can come to class later or go home earlier.
Nowacka: “Common sense”
This is not just carrying out an election promise, Nowacka explained in a short video message. It’s also about ‘common sense’. So far, young people have received more religious lessons than biology, chemistry, physics, social studies and safety education combined. “That is exactly what will change and the school will teach in the best possible way and prepare for the future, including in a professional way,” the minister said.
It is controversial whether the politician can reduce religious education without the permission of the Catholic Church. An agreement between Poland and the Vatican and laws give the church a say in certain areas. In early December, she announced legal action if Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s center-left government ignored these rules.
Bishops want more hours
In talks with the government, the Catholic bishops’ conference has insisted that religion should be taught in primary schools for two hours a week. In secondary schools, the clergy no longer insisted on two hours per week.
However, the bishops argued that all students should take classes on religion or ethics. But Nowacka rejects this. So far, both topics are voluntary. However, ethics classes are often not offered.
The Church wants to investigate the regulations
In Poland, fewer and fewer students have been choosing religion as a subject for years. Especially in the higher classes and in the big cities, the majority often decides against it. According to the Bishops’ Conference, 78.6 percent of all children and young people across the country participated in religious education in the 2023/2024 school year. Two years earlier that was still 82 percent.
A spokesperson for the Polish Bishops’ Conference told the Catholic News Agency (KNA) that the Education Ministry’s scheme would be investigated as soon as it was published in the official gazette.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
