Education Reform
Education Reform: On March 30, the Punjab Education, Curriculum, Training and Assessment Authority approved new religious education books for six minority faiths. These include Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, Kalash, Buddhism, and Zoroastrianism. Schools will use these books from this year. Minority communities and civil society have long demanded this change. They want children to study their own religion instead of Islamic studies or general ethics.
Curriculum Reform Progress
The government started this work in 2021. In 2023, the National Curriculum Council approved textbooks for seven religions, including the Baha’i faith. Experts from different faiths wrote these books. After the 18th Amendment, provinces manage education. So, provinces must print and distribute the books. However, progress stayed slow. Some provinces even asked minority groups to pay printing costs. Many people see this as unfair. The state should provide these books like all other textbooks.
Teacher Challenge
Punjab’s decision received praise, but it also raised concerns. People asked who will teach these subjects. Will schools hire teachers from each minority group? In reality, most schools do not have students from all religions. This creates a practical challenge. Officials say the government will hire teachers for minority students where needed.
Low Enrollment Issues
The number of minority students is also low in many areas. Christians and Hindus make up small parts of Punjab’s population. So, schools may have very few students for each religion. The government plans to assign teachers based on population and need.
Private schools also raise questions. It is unclear if they will follow this policy. However, they follow government rules, so they will likely comply. Even if one minority student studies in a school, the state must protect their religious rights.
Education Equality Concerns
Some people worry that this system will identify minority students easily. This may lead to social pressure or targeting. Right now, minority students choose between ethics and Islamic studies. Neither option works well for them. Islamic studies are difficult. Ethics often reflects the majority religion. This creates imbalance and separation.
International law says states must not discriminate based on religion. All children deserve equal treatment. Ethics should be taught to all students. Minority students should not face separate or unequal learning.
Balanced Religious Education
People also debate the state’s role in religious education. International rules allow parents to guide children’s religion. But if the state teaches religion to the majority, it must also support minority students.
Punjab has taken an important step. But it must plan carefully. The system should not isolate minority children. It should promote respect and diversity.
Inclusive Education System
Many subjects like Urdu, English, and social studies include majority religious themes. Minority students still study this content. The Constitution of Pakistan says no student should be forced into another religion’s teachings or practices.
Pakistan needs a fair system. It must respect all religions. It must also promote tolerance in schools.
Published in Dawn, 27th April 2026
