Govt abandons 2019 reform for madrasas registration with Education Ministry

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.