THE Muslim population touches the figures of approximately 1.3 billion, which is one-fifth of the world population. But, unfortunately, poverty and illiteracy are the major issues of the Muslim world.

It is sad to mention that the total GDP of 57 OIC countries is $1,200 billion, while France alone has a GDP of $1,500. There is no Muslim country that can be compared with any European country in terms of economic growth, education and technological advancement.

Similarly, the modern scientific education in Muslim countries is alarmingly low. The Muslim world has about 550 universities, while only in Japan there are nearly 1,000 universities.

This should be a wake-up call to the Muslim world. It should regain its glorious past.

Tariq Ghunio

Panhwar Sanhri, Sohbatpur

Published in Dawn, May 29th, 2018