THIS is with reference to the editorial ‘Madressah reform’ (Oct 28). Evidently, over the years, seminaries have significantly grown in number, with over 35,000 reported in official figures, educating millions of students.

It is also categorically true that a good number of these institutions serve educational purposes without promoting any negative tendencies, like extremism. Nevertheless, a considerable number have been found involved in militancy and sectarian violence.

There have been instances where the cleric-seminary nexus challenged the state’s authority, and examples thereof are before everyone, such as the Lal Masjid crisis in 2007, and the subse-quent rise of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Taking into account the gravity of the situation, especially confronting us these days, the need for seminary reforms is undeniable. Admittedly, a few efforts in this direction have been undertaken, with the latest being an allocation of over Rs1.2 billion for registering and regulating these seminaries.

Registration is undoubtedly a step in the right direction, but it should not be the sole focus. Curriculum reform

is equally vital. Eliminating hate and sectarian material from seminary courses is crucial, but it is equally important to equip students with the skills they need for gainful employment upon graduation.

With thousands graduating annually, it is essential to consider the integration of all these people into society. While a certain number may become clerics,

the vast majority will still require alternative opportunities. Without a proper plan for vocational training and marketable skills among these students, the risk of unemployment or attraction to militancy remains, and it would continue unabated.

Moreover, there is resistance to reform from some quarters that view it as an encroachment on a certain domain. However, the state must persevere in its reform efforts to combat extremism, and bolster the labour market with qualified individuals.

Besides, the issue of low-income parents sending their children to seminaries for sustenance is a legitimate concern considering the sluggish and desperate economic conditions of the people. While this is partly due to the short-comings of the public education system, it is a long-term project to address these issues comprehensively. Offering free school nutrition programmes and enhancing public education are vital components of the reform process.

It is the matter of grave concern, and neglecting the continuous expansionof seminaries is a recipe for societal disorder. To avoid further radica-lisation, improve the labour market, and foster a sense of progress, seminary reforms is no longer an option, but a pressing necessity.

The issues surrounding seminaries have persisted for decades, with both positive and negative aspects. It is evident that reforms are not only essential, but long overdue. To address the growing extremism and provide opportunities for millions of students, comprehensive reforms must be undertaken. These reforms should encompass several areas, such as registration, curriculum revision, vocational training, and providing alternative educational avenues.

The relevant authorities, educators and the wider community should take prompt and concerted action, fostering consensus and adopting a prudent approach. Only through such unified efforts can we create a brighter,more inclusive future for Pakistan, ensuring the wellbeing of its youth and contributing to the nation’s prosperity.

Majid Burfat
Karachi

Published in Dawn, November 27th, 2023