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AFRICA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY SCHOOL of THEOLOGY a Study of Gülen Inspired Schools in Kenya: a Case Study of Light Academy

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AFRICA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY SCHOOL of THEOLOGY a Study of Gülen Inspired Schools in Kenya: a Case Study of Light Academy AFRICA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY A study of Gülen Inspired Schools in Kenya: A Case Study of Light Academy, Karen - Nairobi By Joash Mogire Orwoch A Thesis submitted to the university in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Mission Studies (Islamic Emphasis) Approved: Supervisor: ______________________ Dr. Josephine Mutuku Second Reader: ___________________ Prof. Caleb Kim External Reader: ___________________ Prof. Julius Muthengi August, 2013 Student Declaration A STUDY OF GÜLEN INSPIRED SCHOOLS IN KENYA: A CASE STUDY OF LIGHT ACADEMY, KAREN - NAIROBI I declare that this is my original work and has not been submitted to any other College or University for academic credit The views presented herein are not necessarily those of the Africa International University or the Examiners. Signed ______________________________________________________________ Joash Mogire Orwoch August, 2013 ABSTRACT This study examines the Gülen Light Academy Schools’ in Kenya. It is a case study of Nairobi Light Academy Boys Secondary School and its influence on society. It is the biggest among other branches in Kenya and situated in Nairobi, a metropolitan and capital city of Kenya. As a result the school enrolls students from all backgrounds in Kenya. By this positioning, the researcher will observe the contribution of the school on Kenyan society. The methodology includes a case study which was conducted by the use of in- depth interviews for teachers and Alumni of Light Academy. A questionnaire was also issued to parents who have students at Light Academy. A total of 23 parents successfully filled the questionnaire. In addition to the parents, a total of 13 Alumni and 16 teachers were interviewed. Data was analyzed using qualitative techniques. The findings indicate that Gülen inspired schools have an implied objective of converting Christians into Islam. This is evident from the activities that take place in the school such as giving more emphasis to teachings from the Qur’an and encouraging interfaith discussions. The study recommends that Christian parents should carefully evaluate the effect of these activities on the future life of their children in terms of religious affiliation. The study also suggests that a comparative study should be carried out to compare the activities of Gülen inspired schools in other countries around the world. iv TO My parents: Mr. Andrew Orwoch , who from childhood gave me the desire for books and studying, and to love and respect people. Mrs. Yunuke Osebe, who always encouraged me, and still prays for me to do great things for God, through prayers and humility of heart and gratitude. Mrs. Sylvia Joash , my dear wife who has passionately supported and encouraged me to finish my studies and this thesis. Lastly, my lovely daughters, Joy, Purity and Faith, and the courageous son Ochukwu Prince, who always reminded me of a father relationship to his own with love and much affection as a responsibility. ACKNOWLEDGMENT It is with much gratitude to God for his gracious encouragement and strength that sustained and enlightened me during my time of study. It would not be possible to pursue my studies to the end if it was not of his favor and manifold wisdom. My profound appreciation goes to my wife Sylvia who was upholding me in prayers throughout the journey. I also thank Ammi Chong Kyoo Ahn and his family for their continued prayers and support that strengthened me through my academics. I would like to thank my missions department lecturers; Dr. Henry Mutua for his insightful approach and guidance throughout my period of study. Dr. Josephine Mutuku Sessi who was my supervisor while writing this thesis, I thank her for comments, directives and encouragement received. I also thank Professor Caleb Kim for his constant prodding to me in writing an academic and scholarly work with precision, and provoking my passion towards Islamic studies. I appreciate the interactive classes with Dr. Steve Rasmussen. I am also grateful to Fatih Akdogan and the staff of Light Academy for all the support they gave me during my study Lastly, I would like to thank Mrs. Mary Omollo’s office for financial support and prayers during my years of study. May the Lord grant His favor to all. vi TABLE OF CONTENTS ABSTRACT..................................................................................................................iv ACKNOWLEDGMENT...............................................................................................vi LIST OF TABLES.........................................................................................................x LIST OF FIGURES ......................................................................................................xi CHAPTER ONE ............................................................................................................1 INTRODUCTION .........................................................................................................1 Background of the Study ...........................................................................................1 Statement of the Problem...........................................................................................2 Objectives of the Study..............................................................................................2 General Objective ..................................................................................................2 Specific Objectives ................................................................................................3 Research Questions................................................................................................3 Significance of the Study...........................................................................................3 Limitations of the Study.............................................................................................4 Assumptions of the Study ..........................................................................................5 Justification for the Study ..........................................................................................6 Scope of the Study .....................................................................................................6 Definition of Terms....................................................................................................6 CHAPTER TWO ...........................................................................................................7 LITERATURE REVIEW ..............................................................................................7 Introduction................................................................................................................7 vii Theoretical Review ....................................................................................................7 Confucius’ Philosophy on Education.....................................................................7 Plato’s Allegory of the Cave Theory of Education..............................................10 Gülen’s Theory on Education..............................................................................11 Gülen Movement’s Education Origins and Practice................................................12 Gülen Inspired Education and schools.....................................................................14 Research Gaps..........................................................................................................15 Conceptual Framework............................................................................................16 Operationalization of the Study Variables...............................................................17 Conclusion ...............................................................................................................18 CHAPTER THREE .....................................................................................................19 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY.................................................................................19 Introduction..............................................................................................................19 Research Design.......................................................................................................19 Target Population.....................................................................................................20 Methods of Data Collection.....................................................................................21 Data Analysis, Presentation and Interpretation........................................................21 Validity and Reliability of the Data.........................................................................22 Ethical Considerations .............................................................................................22 CHAPTER FOUR........................................................................................................23 DATA ANALYSIS AND RESEARCH FINDINGS ..................................................23 Introduction..............................................................................................................23 Demographic Information........................................................................................23 Objectives of Light Academy..................................................................................25 Interfaith Relations...................................................................................................37
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