In what has been described as an exciting and unprecedented move, the Pakistan Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training (MoFE&PT) has approved a new Religious Education Curriculum 2023 for grades 1–12. The decision, which abolishes the necessity for Christians and other minorities to study Islam, heralds a major shift in national educational policy.
The new curriculum for non-Muslim students includes comprehensive teachings from seven religions: Bahai, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Kalasha, Sikhism, and Zoroastrianism. It acknowledges and celebrates Pakistan’s religious diversity and seeks to foster a broader understanding and respect for various religious beliefs.
The Centre for Legal Aid Assistance and Settlement (CLAAS) is a Christian charity dedicated to helping persecuted Christians in Pakistan. Nasir Saeed (pictured), Director of CLAAS-UK, welcomed the new curriculum, saying: ‘This is a long-standing demand of minority communities. This decision is a significant milestone in the struggle for equal rights and opportunities in the education sector. It is also expected to have far-reaching impacts on Pakistan’s educational landscape, as it offers a more inclusive and representative educational experience for minority students and paves the way for a more tolerant and pluralistic society’.
The MoFE&PT believes it demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliation. It considers it a step forward in promoting interfaith understanding and harmony among the younger generation, which is essential for building a cohesive and peaceful society.
Saeed concluded: ‘It is not only a win for minority communities, but also a milestone for the nation, moving towards a more inclusive and equitable future. This curriculum symbolises the potential for positive change and progress in a country rich in religious and cultural diversity.’
