Time for reforms

This refers to the editorial ‘Points to ponder’ (Dec 9). Some pertinent and important points regarding much needed reforms of the madressah policy have been raised in the editorial. The message given by COAS General Bajwa on the same topic is of paramount importance. The army chief has rightly said that if madressahs will not introduce modern education in their institutions, it will be extremely difficult for its 2.5 million students to adapt to practical world.

In addition, there has been strong evidence which suggests that many madressahs act as a place which radicalise students and recruit them into militant cause. General Bajwa’s remarks indicate that a new push for reforms in madressahs may be imminent. As a matter of fact, laws requiring madressahs to register and provide a more comprehensive education are already present. The problem is to implement these laws in face of opposition from religious classes.

Akbar Jan Marwat

Islamabad