An 18-year-old JHS graduate has been denied admission into Dzodze-penyi Senior High School after indications revealed he is a traditional priest.

Galley Felix who wore a cap after being initiated as “Togbui Tueve Awunyo II" of Ative (ativɛ), in the Ketu North Municipality to the school was rejected by administrators regardless of being placed by the Computerized School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS).

According to him, all the reasons he had presented to the authorities for wearing the cap were ignored.

Offered to study Visual Arts, Galley Felix revealed that harm would befall his community and himself should the school still insist he takes off his religious cap before being given admission.

“I gained admission to Dzodze-penyi Senior High, but I was told I would only be allowed into the school if I remove my cap, but according to our culture, there is no way I can remove it. I tried explaining to the school why I wear the cap, but the school insisted I take it off before being allowed in the school.”

“I could go mad and many things could happen to my community if I remove my cap in public. I have been wearing this [cap] for 13 years, and no one has asked me to remove it because they know the ramifications,” he bemoaned.

The 18-year-old who is also handicapped on the right side strongly believes formal education is the only way for him to attain his life objectives.

But speaking on behalf of the school, Headteacher, Matthew Troha said specific processes and codes of conduct are being followed by authorities of the school.

According to him, Galley Felix would not be permitted till he decides to forfeit wearing his cap or files a request to seek permission from the school.