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 indepth
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.
