National Framework Includes Religious Seminaries for First Time

Rehan Khan

Islamabad: Major General (Retired) Dr. Ghulam Qamar, Project Director of the Directorate General of Religious Education (DGRE), announced significant progress in integrating religious seminaries into Pakistan’s national education system.

Speaking at a conference titled “Positive Impact of Madaris Registration under DGRE” held at a local hotel, Dr Qamar emphasized that this integration process has been carried out independently, free from external influence.

Highlighting the historical and social significance of seminaries in Pakistan, Dr Qamar acknowledged the challenges they have faced over time. He reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing these issues and ensuring their rightful place in the national framework.

In 2019, the government formalized an agreement with leading religious scholars, requiring seminaries to affiliate with the Ministry of Education. Approved by the federal cabinet, this initiative ensures the registration of seminaries under the DGRE, operating under the ministry’s supervision.

Dr Qamar explained the streamlined registration process, which involves the submission of a form free of charge.

The DGRE operates 16 regional offices nationwide to facilitate this initiative, with registration completed within two weeks. So far, over 18,600 seminaries have been registered across the country, with plans to register all within five years under the agreement.

He disclosed that 1,609 students from 53 countries are currently enrolled in Pakistani seminaries, many of which provide free education, books, and training in disciplines such as calligraphy and technical skills.

Approximately 2,500 students are receiving technical education, while 115 seminaries offer calligraphy training. Furthermore, teachers at registered seminaries are now salaried employees of the Ministry of Education.

Dr Qamar also emphasized the importance of fostering inter-sectarian harmony and called for unity and mutual respect among citizens. He underscored the DGRE’s commitment to working with seminaries without political affiliations, focusing on student welfare and societal betterment.

“Seminaries play a crucial role in serving the nation, and their graduates contribute significantly to various fields, including the military and civil services. This effort to integrate seminaries into the mainstream reflects the collective will of the nation,” he concluded.