The olden system of Madrasas and maktabs (Primary Schools) teaching is now set to undergo an drastic change with the State Government planning their modernization and linking them to the mainstream/ Common education system.
This proposal will further introduce vigorous reforms in the old system in order to enable the madrasas to keep pace with the modern world and bring its graduates closer to job opportunities. Other similar proposals have also been planned in other states in the backdrop of charges that madrasas have become developing grounds of 'Moderation'.
However, while the allegations brought the spotlight back on the system, the efforts to link madrasas to modern educational system has, in general, found opposition from community scholars for the fear that such a move will ensure madrasas lose their independence.
In order to bring an solution for this, a meting was held on Monday in order to discuss the modalities of the scheme which will further effect more than 2 lakh students of Madrasas across the state. As per the proposal, the Government will ensure systematic improvement in the infrastructure of residential madrasas, living facilities and educational methods that is being adopted at madrasas in every district.
Moreover, the state will also hold a video conference of various religious heads and scholars before finalizing this scheme.
Here is what a few experts say about this scheme.
The Chief secretary J K Banthia said "Madrasa education is limited to religious scripts and teachings of Islam. However, there are some madrasas (such as Darul-uloom at Deobund) that have been at the forefront in introducing modern curriculum and education. If this could be emulated elsewhere, lakhs of children can be pulled into the mainstream society and system." and
Maulana Sayed Ather Ali, member of Muslim Personal Law Board said that "If they want to teach modern languages and computer studies, we have no problem. But they should assure us they will not touch our curriculum. As it is, we are answerable to tax authorities and the charity commissioner."
What is your opinion about this scheme. Will there be an end to all types of religious education? Will this scheme be helpful? And How? Share your views.