On 5th March 2021, Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training, Shafqat issued a notification regarding non-Muslim students to study Islamic studies. After the fruitful meeting, Shafqat Mehmood finalized the decision that non-muslim student teachers will study their own religion instead of Islamic Studies. Other than that, they also discussed Single National Curriculum.
Earlier, Single National Curriculum issued a policy to teach Islamic studies to non-muslim students. But the non-muslim minority feels difficulty in studying these Islamic studies. Hence, the non-muslim authority does not agree to study this subject. In addition to this, no elective courses about minority religions like Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, and others taught at matriculation or intermediate level. Many students are unaware of their own religious values.
On 4th March 2021, Shafqat Mehmood met up with British High Commissioner Dr. Christian Turner, elucidates that separate articles for Christian, Hindu, Sikh, Baha’i, and Kailash communities have been composed with the consultation of religious scholars of these particular religions. Religious minorities taught about their own religious values.
Other than that, they also discussed the key details of a uniform curriculum, As per details, Shafqat Mehmood stated that Mathematics, English, and Science subjects taught in the English language whereas; Islamic studies will be taught in Urdu till 5th grade. In addition to that, Social Studies and General Knowledge will also be taught in Urdu, however; certain English terms included in these subjects. For students from 6th to 8th grade, the English components in their courses will gradually be increased, so that students can get acquainted with the language easily. After 8th grade, students are at liberty to choose international or national qualifications for their education.
