Uttarakhand madrasas to offer Sanskrit to align with mainstream education

Uttarakhand's madrasa board plans to introduce Sanskrit as an optional subject, aligning with the state's efforts to modernise madrasa education and integrate mainstream subjects like science and computers.

In Short

• Uttarakhand madrasas plan to introduce Sanskrit education
• NCERT syllabus already implemented with 96% pass results
• Waqf Board advocates balance between religious and modern subjects

The Uttarakhand Madrasa Board is planning to introduce Sanskrit as an optional subject across over 400 madrasas in the state. This plan, still under consideration, aligns with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's vision to bring madrasa students into mainstream education.

Mufti Shamoon Qasmi, the board’s chairman, revealed that a proposal is being prepared, and once approved by the state government, this significant step could become a reality.

NCERT SYLLABUS SHOWS IMPRESSIVE RESULTS

The Uttarakhand madrasas already follow the NCERT syllabus, and the results have been noteworthy.

With over a 96% pass percentage this year, Qasmi noted the talent of madrasa students, stating, "Given an opportunity, they might excel in all subjects, including Sanskrit."

Introducing Sanskrit, an ancient language alongside Arabic, would provide students with more opportunities and broader learning experiences.

MODERNISING MADRASA EDUCATION

The idea of offering Sanskrit in madrasas complements the broader vision of modernising their curriculum.

Shadab Shams, Chairman of the Uttarakhand Waqf Board, has been advocating for "modern madrasas" since taking office in 2022. He stressed the importance of balancing religious education with subjects like science and computers.

"I feel theological education is important, but confining children to religious texts all day throttles their potential," Shams said.

Under the proposed reforms, madrasas would continue to teach religious studies but would also provide students with access to modern subjects. This shift aims to equip them for a broader range of future opportunities.

A WAIT FOR STATE APPROVAL

While the plan has generated discussion, its implementation awaits approval. Shahid Shami Siddiqui, the board's registrar, clarified that Sanskrit education is still in the idea phase. However, Shams believes that obtaining government clearance won’t be an issue.

As the conversation around modernising madrasa education continues, the integration of Sanskrit could represent a significant step in broadening the horizons of students in Uttarakhand’s madrasas.

(With PTI inputs)