By Taye Obateru

Jos-CATHOLIC Archdiocese of Jos has expressed worry over the growing level of examination malpractices in schools which has resulted in the growth of “passing centers” where students are aided to cheat.

It has also expressed concern over the threat posed to global peace, economic and social stability by religious fanaticism saying, “we see feverish religious practices where hatred of one another based on ethnic, political and religious differences prevail”.

In a pastoral message at the end of the Ninth General Assembly of the archdiocese, the church called for urgent steps to salvage the falling standard in character and learning in schools.

”We decry the widespread examination malpractice in some public and private institutions, popularly referred to as “passing centres” which are aided and abetted by some parents, teachers, school administrators and even examination bodies. Our Catholic schools remain committed to upholding examinations ethics and maintaining high moral standards”, it said.

The pastoral message which was jointly signed by the Catholic Archbishop of Jos, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama and the Chancellor, Very Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Ikpa also expressed concern over what it called the abandonment of Christian virtues in society despite the growing number of churches.

According to the message, “it is time for us to review and re-strategize our methods of evangelization to effectively address the current trends of superficial expression of Christianity, superstitious practices, prosperity religion where the central place on the cross is de-emphasised.”