This study investigates the role of Christian Religious Education (CRE) in character development
among students in public secondary schools in Kabondo Kasipul Sub-County, Homa Bay County,
Kenya. The research seeks to fill the gap in existing literature regarding how CRE influences
students' moral values, behaviors, and overall character development. A descriptive survey design
was employed, incorporating quantitative methods to collect data from a sample of 126
respondents, including 6 CRE teachers and 120 secondary school students. Stratified random
sampling techniques ensured representation across various strata, providing insights into the
effectiveness of CRE in shaping student behavior. Data analysis was performed using the
Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 21, facilitating the use of descriptive
statistics to interpret the findings. The findings indicate that CRE plays a significant role in
instilling core ethical values such as honesty, integrity, respect, and responsibility among students.
A substantial percentage of students reported that CRE lessons helped them understand moral
values, with 72% agreeing that these lessons positively influenced their understanding.
Additionally, 47% noted positive behavioral changes since attending CRE classes, and 63%
acknowledged improved interactions with peers as a result of CRE teachings. The study concludes
that CRE effectively enhances students' character development, contributing to a reduction in
disciplinary issues within schools. Schools that emphasize CRE have reported fewer cases of
misconduct, as students internalize the moral teachings and apply them in their daily lives.
Recommendations from the study include: Training Teachers: Equip educators with innovative
teaching strategies such as storytelling, role-playing, and debates to engage students effectively.
Parental Involvement: Promote collaboration between teachers and parents to ensure consistent
ethical guidance at home and in school. Peer Mentorship Programs: Encourage senior students to
act as role models for younger peers, reinforcing positive values. Community Service Initiatives:
Integrate real-life applications of CRE teachings through community service projects, fostering
empathy and social responsibility. Inclusive Classroom Environments: Create a classroom culture
that promotes mutual respect and teamwork. The study also suggests areas for future research,
including the effects of gender stereotyping on academic performance in CRE, the impact of
information technology on learning CRE, and the role of learners' attitudes toward their
performance in the subject. Overall, the research underscores the critical importance of CRE in
promoting ethical behavior and character development among students, highlighting its potential
to shape responsible and conscientious individuals in the community. The use of SPSS in data
analysis provided a robust framework for interpreting the results, ensuring the reliability and
validity of the findings