Reforming Pakistan's Educational System: The Challenge of the Madrassas

摘要

The author examines the history and functioning of the Madrassa school system in Pakistan, which he sees as a fount of Islamic fundamentalism in that country, and a potential source of recruits for militant Islamic extremism. The debate over the Madrassas evokes images of jihad, warfare training, terrorism and an archaic system of education. Most of these perceptions are a result of generalizations and oversimplification of a complex phenomenon. The dilemma is that many Madrassa indeed play a role in violence and conflict. However, many others have a key place in Pakistan's religious and social life. The country's future appears to be at a turning point -- will Pakistan make the commitment to education necessary to eradicate poverty and prepare the country to compete in an integrated world economy, or will the majority in the country remain mired in poverty and despair. -- easy prey to radical groups. Will the country have the will to channel the Madrassas away from violence and conflict and towards a more productive role in the country's economy and society. For his part, President Musharraf has emphasized the theme that 'Pakistan is a moderate Muslim country.' He has spoken of his country's 'greater jihad against illiteracy, poverty, and hunger,' and enthusiastically detailed his hopes for reshaping his country's crumbling educational system and reforming its controversial religious schools. This article examines the country's educational system, with particular emphasis on the Madrassa. How does this system operate. What are the system's main limitations. What reforms is the Pakistani government currently undertaking to reorient the seminaries to serve the country as a whole. What actions characterize these reforms as distinct from earlier attempts. What is the nature and extent of opposition to them. What are the main implications for the international community in assisting the country's efforts at educating its population.