Education and Primary and Mass Education Minister Dr ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon has called for Islamic education to become a key part of Bangladesh’s national development strategy, saying that it should help produce ethical, skilled and capable citizens rather than focusing solely on religious instruction.
Speaking on Tuesday at the Best Institution Head and Outstanding Students Award Ceremony for the Fazil and Kamil institutions affiliated with the Islamic Arabic University, the minister said, “Islamic education has an important role in preparing future leaders and strengthening the country’s human resources.”
Addressing the event at the International Mother Language Institute in Dhaka, Dr Milon stated, "The sector must be modernised to meet international standards.”
He stressed the need for greater investment in research, better-qualified teachers and a curriculum that reflects current academic and professional demands.
He said again that madrasa education should evolve beyond its traditional structure so that graduates are able to compete successfully both at home and abroad.
The minister urged the Islamic Arabic University to take a stronger leadership role in improving higher Islamic education through research, strategic planning and academic innovation.
He also said, "The government has been working to reform the administrative and academic structure of madrasa education to build a more integrated and effective education system. Efforts are also underway to strengthen links between Fazil and Kamil programmes and mainstream higher education.”
Milon added that values-based education remains an important part of the national education system, adding that Islamic education can make a meaningful contribution to promoting ethics, integrity and character.
However, he noted that achieving this goal depends on improving teaching quality, introducing modern learning methods and updating course content.
The minister acknowledged the shortage of qualified teachers in many madrasas, particularly in specialised Islamic studies, and urged the relevant authorities to give greater attention to curriculum development and overall educational standards.
He also recognised concerns over salary-related issues affecting some newly appointed madrasa teachers, saying the government is actively reviewing the matter.
According to the minister, the introduction of the Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) system is expected to improve the transparency, efficiency and reliability of salary payments.
Speaking directly to students, the education minister encouraged them to focus on gaining knowledge, conducting research and developing practical skills rather than simply earning academic qualifications.
“Graduates of Islamic education should be prepared to contribute across a wide range of professions and public services,” he continued.
The government, he added, will continue expanding opportunities for Fazil and Kamil graduates to pursue higher education and compete for national career opportunities, including the Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS) examinations.
The ceremony was chaired by Professor Dr Mohammad Abu Jafar Khan, vice-chancellor of the Islamic Arabic University. Among those attending were Secondary and Higher Education Division Secretary Abdul Khaleq; Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education Director General Professor Dr Khan Moinuddin Al Mahmud Sohel; along with vice-chancellors, principals, teachers and students from educational institutions across Bangladesh.
.jpg "PM may reshuffle ministers, appoint advisers: Zahed")
