Noting the emphasis in African environment on religion and morals as the basis of social interaction, the author outlines the objectives of religious teaching in elementary schools, describes the Joint Agreed Syllabus for Bible Knowledge in Nigerian Primary Schools, and discusses the training of teachers in content, methods, and rationale. (JT)

Before discussing the selection of trainees (not on basis of religious background) and the teacher training curriculum (content, methodology, practicum, and climate), the author discusses rationale and changing aims of religious education and the present status of teaching religion in West African schools. (JT)

Discusses (1) the applicability of cross-cultural research, particularly Kohlberg's model, for Africa; (2) close connections in Africa among religion, morality, and life; (3) the nature of the ethos and worldview that shape Africans' moral beliefs; (4) elements of a model of moral/ethics construction; and (5) limitations of the study. (DSK)