Following up on his party's campaign promise, Federal Minister for Education Shafqat Mehmood announced at a press conference on Wednesday that the government is preparing to introduce a uniform education system in government and private schools as well as madressahs (seminaries) from grade I to XII. His ministry, he said, is in consultation with governments in the provinces, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. The most important aspect of this reform plan is its focus on induction of uniform syllabi. In the case of seminaries, barring the subjects taught under Dars-e-Nizami syllabus, for all other mainstream subjects at the matriculation and intermediate levels their pupils will appear in exams conducted by various provincial education boards. The objective, of course, is to equip students with knowledge and skills that could enable them to realise their potential talent and contribute to the country's socio-economic progress.
Creating uniform standards of education is very welcome, but only if the purpose is to impart modern education to all rather than impelling even those following progressive trends to conform to what amounts to ideological indoctrination in the name of traditions and culture. Rote learning needs to be discouraged and critical thinking promoted so young people can evaluate for themselves received information, and reject irrational ideas - a skill that can enhance their understanding of all kinds of issues. Considering the existing environment that is a hugely challenging task. It may be recalled that the previous PTI government in KP and PML-N government in Punjab had made some changes in school curriculums but withdrew printed books after facing criticism from religious parties for promoting liberal ideas. They will certainly raise objections to any progressive changes in the mainstream schools, and even more fiercely in the case of seminaries. It can only be hoped this time the federal and the other governments will not make any compromise on the quality of education.
The minister told journalists the federal government has signed two agreements with federal government has with the Ittehad-e- Tanzneemaat Madaris - the body that oversees medressah affairs - for the registration of seminaries with the Federal Ministry of Education and Professional Training, which would also assist them with teacher training, opening of bank accounts (opening their accounts to audit has been a major bone of contention) and some other issues. Those who refuse to be registered will not be allowed to function. That though may not be so easy in view of the fact that not long ago JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, who runs a large number of seminaries, had threatened to launch an agitation against the government if it tried to bring about any change in the way these institutions functioned. It's about time this government took courage in both hands and persevered to bring school education in step with demands of the times.