Govt abandons 2019 reform for madrasas registration with Education Ministry
Critics link madrasas to radicalization, citing their role in supplying recruits for militant groups


Islamabad: Pakistan’s government has abandoned a 2019 reform requiring madrasas to register with the Ministry of Education, reverting to a colonial-era system with minimal oversight.
This change, brokered with the Islamist party Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, prioritizes political stability over counterterrorism and international obligations. Madrasas, which provide free education to millions, have been criticized for fostering radicalization, yet they remain vital for families facing poverty or seeking religious education.
Efforts to regulate them intensified post-9/11, but international pressure persists. Critics argue the focus on madrasas neglects Pakistan’s failing public education system, which leaves millions of children out of school.
Madrasas offer free education, meals, and housing, drawing millions of poor children and devout families.
Critics link madrasas to radicalization, citing their role in supplying recruits for militant groups.
The 2019 reform mandated madrasa registration under the Ministry of Education to improve oversight.
Resistance from Islamist parties led to the recent reversal of these reforms, allowing registration under colonial-era laws.
The deal was part of a broader political compromise with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam.
The reversal faces criticism for undermining counterterrorism efforts and international commitments.
Madrasas fill gaps left by Pakistan’s failing public education system but often lack modern curricula.
Many families enroll children in madrasas due to religious beliefs rather than poverty.
Critics argue the focus on madrasas overlooks deeper issues in Pakistan’s public education crisis.

Mustafa murder case: Accused Armaghan’s physical remand granted for another week
- 4 hours ago

UN, Iran condemn terrorist attack on Jaffar Express in Balochistan
- 6 hours ago

Measles worsens again in Karachi, children admitted to hospitals
- 3 hours ago

Security high alert ordered in Punjab amid current situation
- 2 hours ago

Deputy District Attorney Liaquat Ali shot dead in Khairpur
- 2 hours ago

How Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip failed me without actually breaking
- 2 hours ago

Jaffar Express tragedy: Pakistan Railways suspends train service to Balochistan
- 6 hours ago

Cashless future on horizon: Google Wallet to Launch in Pakistan today
- 5 hours ago

Order to transfer super tax pending appeals to SC
- 3 hours ago

Cold weather in Balochistan after rain, hail
- 5 hours ago

Moody's changes outlook of Pakistani banks from ‘stable’ to ‘positive’
- 3 hours ago

Sindh to not purchase wheat this year
- 2 hours ago