ON the issue of madressah reforms, there is intense opposition from religious parties. But it is the need of the hour to introduce reforms so as to keep pace with the march of times.

The syllabus is outdated and does not match modern challenges. Second, the curriculum does not provide a practical guide to life in society; it can only make students prayer leaders or fiery orators. Thirdly, owing to its narrow range, most of the students and teachers of madressahs resort to fuelling sectarian divide in society. Moreover, every school of thought has its own syllabus and pattern which does not fulfil the needs of a modern state.

There is a need for overhauling the madressah system to bring a positive change in society. A consensus should be sought from different schools of thought and those who oppose should be asked to give an alternative solution.

Ghulam Mujtaba

Rawalpindi

Published in Dawn January 14th , 2015

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