THE PERCEIVED IMPACT OF PENTECOSTALISM ON ACADEMIC ATTAINMENT AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN MALAWI

Abstract

Various studies have documented positive impacts of religion on education. Little attention has been given to understanding negative impacts. This study investigated the negative impact of Pentecostalism on education attainment in Malawi. Data was collected using a questionnaire and interviews with teachers, and students from twelve secondary schools in Ntchisi and Kasungu districts. Data was also collected from religious leaders from the catchment areas of the selected schools. The collected data through thematic analysis. The study answered research questions on whether Pentecostalism influence the poor grades attainment in secondary schools; perceived connection between Pentecostal beliefs and poor education performance in secondary schools and finally power relationship between Pentecostal leaders, teachers and students in secondary schools? It was found out that people believe in Pentecostalism and that they have seen and heard people testifying positive outcomes after believing in them. Secondly, Pentecostal religious leaders do not think that belief in Pentecostalism leads to the poor grades attainment. Furthermore, there is no connection between poor outcome from education and Pentecostal beliefs. Finally, the study found out that there is strong relationship between Pentecostal religious leaders, teachers and students in education attainment. Leaders believe in the need for spiritual power to influence positive education outcome.