Participation in Scripture Union and Students' Discipline in Government-Aided Secondary Schools in Nyabushozi County in Kiruhura District

Abstract

This study examined the level of student participation in Scripture Union (SU) activities in government secondary schools in Nyabushozi County, Kiruhura District. A qualitative research design was adopted to gain in-depth insights into students’ experiences and the perceptions of key stakeholders. The study engaged 333 purposively selected participants, including 224 students, 67 teachers, 4 chaplains, and 38 parents. Data were collected through open-ended questionnaires with students, semi-structured interviews with teachers and chaplains, and focus group discussions with parents. Thematic analysis guided data interpretation. Findings revealed that student participation in SU was generally high and sustained, with members consistently attending Bible study, worship sessions, leadership training, and outreach activities. Teachers and chaplains confirmed that students actively engaged in both school-based and weekend fellowship programs, while parents observed that SU participation positively influenced their children’s behavior at home. Scripture Union also emerged as a platform for nurturing leadership skills, responsibility, and discipline among students, with senior members mentoring juniors and coordinating activities. Despite this overall high participation, some variation was noted, as a few students attended irregularly due to academic demands or peer influence. The study concludes that SU serves as a central fellowship that meaningfully engages students, fosters discipline, and encourages long-term commitment to spiritual and moral development. It is recommended that schools support SU by incorporating it into timetables, providing leadership opportunities, and encouraging broader student involvement to maximize the fellowship’s transformative potential.