Exploring Interfaith Understanding and Social Cohesion Through Comparative Religious Education among Pre-Service Students in Some Selected Universities in Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64348/zije.2026397Abstract
This study explored interfaith understanding and social cohesion through Comparative Religious Education (CRE) in selected universities in Nigeria. Specifically, it examined students’ attitudes toward religious diversity, assessed the role of CRE in promoting interfaith understanding, and investigated its impact on social cohesion among pre-service students. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, involving pre-service students enrolled in CRE courses at University of Ilorin, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, and University of Port Harcourt. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select participants, ensuring proportional representation across religious backgrounds. Data were collected using structured online questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, which were validated and pilot-tested, yielding a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.82. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. The findings revealed that students held positive attitudes toward religious diversity, CRE significantly enhanced interfaith understanding, and it fostered social cohesion by promoting trust, cooperation, and shared values among students. Qualitative results further indicated that collaborative CRE activities and dialogue opportunities reinforced these outcomes, although challenges such as large class sizes, limited resources, and occasional resistance from peers were noted. The study concluded that CRE is a critical tool for fostering tolerance and peaceful coexistence, and recommended the expansion of interactive and practical CRE activities, institutional support for lecturers, and further research on longitudinal impacts of CRE on graduates.
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