Pakistan’s 2019 Agreement with Madressa Organizations Reveals Key Education Reforms

Islamabad:A significant agreement signed between the Government of Pakistan and the Ittehad Tanzimat Madaris (Federation of Madrasa Organizations) in 2019 has come to light. The agreement, made during the tenure of PTI government under Education Minister Shafqat Mehmood, outlines key reforms aimed at bringing religious schools (madrasas) under the purview of the Ministry of Education.

The agreement, signed on August 29, 2019, required all religious seminaries to register with the Ministry of Education. It also stipulated that any madrasa failing to register would face closure. Additionally, the agreement designated the Ministry of Education as the sole authority responsible for collecting and maintaining data on madrasas.

Under the terms of the agreement, madrasas were also mandated to open bank accounts and were granted permission to admit foreign students. The agreement outlined the implementation of a uniform curriculum across all religious schools. In the event of any violations of the established rules and regulations, madrasas could have their registration revoked.

The deal was part of the government’s broader initiative for educational reforms, with assurances of financial assistance and resources to support madrasas in transitioning to a more formalized educational structure.

This agreement also emphasized the government’s goal to integrate religious institutions into the mainstream educational system, ensuring that students in madrasas receive a standardized education while preserving the religious focus of these schools.