1. Our Foundation

Our commitment to non-discrimination is rooted in the biblical truth that every human being is created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. The Apostle Paul reminds us that in Christ, “there is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28).

This policy reflects our belief that theological education should be accessible to all who are called to study and serve, without regard to any personal characteristic that has no bearing on academic ability or ministry calling.

2. Protected Characteristics

School of Ministries does not discriminate on the basis of any of the following:

We also do not discriminate on the basis of language, political opinion, or any other status unrelated to academic qualifications or ministry calling.

3. Areas of Application

This policy applies to every aspect of our operations, including:

3.1 Admissions

• All applicants are evaluated based on their qualifications, calling, and readiness for study
• No applicant is rejected on the basis of any protected characteristic
• Admission decisions are made prayerfully, fairly, and consistently

3.2 Academic Programs

• All students have equal access to course materials, lectures, and assessments
• Grading is based solely on academic performance
• No student receives preferential or prejudicial treatment

3.3 Tutors & Staff

• Tutor applications are evaluated on qualifications and calling
• Course assignments are made based on expertise and availability
• All tutors are treated equally regardless of background

3.4 Student Life

• All students are welcome in forums, discussions, and community activities
• Harassment, bullying, or exclusionary behavior is strictly prohibited
• Every student has the right to learn in a safe, respectful environment

3.5 Financial Aid

• Scholarships and financial assistance are awarded based on need and merit
• No applicant is disadvantaged because of their background

4. Prohibited Conduct

The following behaviors are strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action:

• Discriminatory Language: Slurs, insults, or derogatory comments based on protected characteristics
• Harassment: Unwanted conduct that creates an intimidating or hostile environment
• Exclusion: Deliberately excluding individuals from activities based on protected characteristics
• Unequal Treatment: Treating students or tutors differently without academic justification
• Retaliation: Punishing anyone who reports discrimination or participates in an investigation

5. Reasonable Accommodations

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities or special needs. Examples include:

• Extended time for assignments or exams where appropriate
• Alternative assessment formats (oral instead of written, etc.)
• Accessible course materials
• Flexible attendance for medical reasons

To request an accommodation, please contact admission@schoolofministries.com with appropriate documentation.

6. Religious Freedom & Institutional Identity

School of Ministries is a Christian theological institution. While we welcome students from all backgrounds, our programs, teachings, and community life are grounded in evangelical Christian faith and practice.

Students and tutors are expected to respect the institution’s Statement of Faith and conduct themselves in a manner consistent with our values. This is not a form of discrimination but a reflection of our institutional identity and mission.

7. Reporting Discrimination

If you experience or witness discrimination, we encourage you to report it immediately. All reports are taken seriously and handled confidentially.

How to Report

• Email: admission@schoolofministries.com
• Subject Line: “Discrimination Report — [Your Name]”
• Include: Date, location, description of incident, names of parties involved, and any witnesses

What Happens Next

1. Your report is acknowledged within 48 hours
2. An investigation is conducted by the Admin team
3. All parties are given an opportunity to share their perspective
4. A decision is made and communicated within 14 business days
5. Appropriate disciplinary action is taken if discrimination is confirmed

Protection from Retaliation

Anyone who reports discrimination in good faith will be protected from retaliation. Retaliation against a reporter is itself a serious violation of this policy.

8. Consequences of Violation

Violations of this Non-Discrimination Policy may result in:

• Warning: Formal written warning for minor or first-time offenses
• Suspension: Temporary suspension from courses or platform access
• Expulsion: Permanent removal from the institution for serious or repeated violations
• Termination: For tutors and staff, termination of assignment or employment
• Legal Action: In severe cases, referral to civil authorities

9. Legal Framework

This policy is guided by:

• The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Article 17 — Equality and Freedom from Discrimination)
• The Ghana Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651) — for tutor and staff matters
• International human rights standards, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
• Biblical principles of justice, mercy, and love for neighbor

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Non-Discrimination Policy from time to time. Updates will be posted on this page with an updated “Last Updated” date. Continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of any changes.

11. Contact Us

For questions about this policy or to report discrimination, please contact us:

“So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith… There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” — Galatians 3:26–28