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Madrassa Modernization: Need of the hour

Time and again, repeated allegations about the outdated nature of Madrassa’s curriculum have led to calls for reform, with some, including the Chairman of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), going as far as suggesting that Madrassas obstructs the path of secular education for Muslim children. For many families however, particularly in economically backward areas, Madrassas are often the only affordable option for education. What need to be immediately addressed is modernization- an urgent reform that can blend religious education with a modern, formal curriculum.

The argument that Madrassas are using an outdated syllabus is not without merit. In an era where knowledge and skill sets are evolving rapidly, the traditional Madrassa curriculum, which focuses almost exclusively on religious studies, does little to prepare students for the demands of the contemporary job market. Many Madrassa graduates, though well-versed in theology, lack the competencies needed for higher education or for securing jobs in a globalized economy. This gap not only limits their individual opportunities but also contributes to the marginalization of the Muslim community in broader socio-economic contexts. A key challenge, therefore, is to reform these institutions without diluting their religious essence. After all, for many families, the religious education provided by Madrassas is not just valuable but essential. A comprehensive approach is needed that introduces subjects like science, mathematics, and English into the curriculum while maintaining a strong foundation in religious education. Such a balanced system would allow students to emerge with both spiritual knowledge and the skills required to succeed in a modern, competitive world.

One of the key reasons Madrassas are often seen as outdated is the lack of properly trained teachers who can instruct in subjects beyond religious studies. Investing in teacher training programs will ensure that Madrassa instructors can effectively teach a modern curriculum alongside religious education. Training programs that certify teachers in formal subjects while enhancing their pedagogical skills will contribute greatly to the quality of education in Madrassas. Technology can be a game-changer in bridging the gap between Madrassa education and modern systems. Providing Madrassas with digital tools, internet access, and learning software can introduce students to a world of information beyond their immediate reach. Online resources can also be used to train teachers in real-time, making the modernization process more efficient. Modernization efforts would benefit from partnerships between Madrassas, Government educational agencies, and NGOs working in the field of education. Such collaboration could help in developing and implementing a standardized syllabus, conducting workshops for teachers, and providing infrastructural support. Madrassas could also receive financial aid for upgrading their facilities, ensuring they can meet the needs of 21st-century learners. The Government may also adopt an inclusive policy framework that encourages Madrassa modernization without infringing on their religious autonomy. Policymakers must acknowledge the vital role of Madrassas in providing education to marginalized communities and work toward integrating them into the broader educational ecosystem.

By modernizing Madrassas and incorporating formal subjects, we can ensure that students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for the challenges of the modern world, while still preserving the religious values that their families hold dear. By embracing reform, we can uplift an entire generation of Muslim youth, allowing them to thrive both spiritually and intellectually.

-Saleem Shaikh,

PhD Scholar,

Jamia Millia Islamia

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