Tuesday, July 1, 2025

The Need of Skills Development Programme in the Religious Schools

By Dr. Zafar Darik Qasmi, New Age Islam 1 July 2025 Students should be taught what is expected in today’s pluralistic society, and why the study of religions (comparative religion) is important Main Points: 1. Allah has gifted human beings with numerous talents and abilities. 2. Wise societies and responsible institutions always value talents. 3. Unemployment is rising in our country, and to make it worse, even the most capable individuals are left behind. 4. Students should be taught what is expected in today’s pluralistic society, ----- (From Files) ----- It is a universally accepted truth that Allah has gifted human beings with numerous talents and abilities. The discoveries and inventions we see around us today are the result of this human potential and skill. These abilities not only benefit the individual but also contribute positively to society. Skilled and talented individuals become role models for others, especially for the youth. Wise societies and responsible institutions always value such talents. They not only respect experienced individuals but also provide opportunities for further growth. When societies acknowledge talent and skill without discrimination, it leads to harmony, balance, and a peaceful environment. Unfortunately, many young people today are trapped in confusion and difficult situations. Their natural abilities should have been used for the development of the country and society, but instead, these talents are being wasted. In some cases, these youth are being shaped in a way that leads to unrest and uncertainty in society. To bring back the lost glory and secure the future of the nation, we must equip the youth with noble thoughts and positive ideologies. But we must also ask—how many talented individuals are being denied opportunities due to favouritism or internal politics? Many capable youth are victims of injustice and exploitation. In contrast, there are societies and countries that assign roles purely based on merit and talent, without caring for personal connections. Western societies have made remarkable progress in science, inventions, and modern technologies because they value knowledge and skills above all else. Unemployment is rising in our country, and to make it worse, even the most capable individuals are left behind. One major reason is the lack of proper guidance and training for the youth. It is our moral responsibility to guide them correctly. We live in a time of specialization. Therefore, students should be trained in such a way that they emerge as experts in their respective fields. As Professor Mohammad Saud Alam Qasmi rightly said: “Although our students possess many good qualities, only those societies and scholars survive and lead that focus on one specific field and master it.” In today’s era, it's important to introduce skills development programs in religious seminaries (madrasas). Some institutions have begun to show awareness, but the efforts are still not enough. Since modern demands have changed, the training in madrasas must also evolve. Students should be taught what is expected in today’s pluralistic society, and why the study of religions (comparative religion) is important. India is a hub of religions and philosophies. Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism—all originated here. Understanding them is essential today. Madrasas should aim to produce scholars who are experts in world religions. In the past, great scholars like Al-Biruni, Masudi, Yaqoobi, Khwaja Hasan Nizami, and Abu Rahmat Hasan Meeruti made significant contributions in this field. But today, the tradition of research in comparative religion in madrasas has almost disappeared. It must be revived. Similarly, many students are interested in journalism and media. Proper training should be given, and expert lectures should be arranged regularly. Our lack of presence in the media results in false accusations and injustices against us. Unless we have proper representation in the media, we will continue to suffer. Madrasas also need to focus on economics and finance. Great scholars of the past wrote extensively on these subjects. For example, Ibn Nadim in Al-Fihrist and Hajji Khalifa in Kashf al-Zunun listed many books on economics. Many Urdu writers have also contributed to this field. Sadly, this tradition is now declining in religious institutions, and we must rethink this neglect. In summary, madrasas are the backbone of society’s moral and intellectual guidance. Society looks up to them. Therefore, it's crucial that they modernize their approach according to the needs of the time. Despite having a glorious history in all branches of knowledge and science, our institutions hesitate to adopt those very skills today. If we want to preserve our identity and prove our worth, we must prepare academically and plan strategically. In conclusion, students of madrasas are full of potential. Their talents and skills can benefit society greatly—but only if they are trained as experts in various modern fields. Regular lectures by professionals can help refine their research abilities and build their future. This will not only brighten their lives but also allow them to contribute meaningfully to society. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-society/skills-development-religious-schools/d/136040 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

No comments:

Post a Comment