Islamic Education Conference in Malaysia: A Step Towards Reviving Human Values
The recent World Association of Islamic Schools conference held in Shah Alam, Malaysia, from September 30 to October 3, gathered over 300 leaders from Islamic educational institutions worldwide. The event, themed 'Reviving Deep-rooted Traditions,' aimed to enhance communication and collaboration among private Islamic schools across 28 countries. The conference emphasized the importance of human values in education and the significant role Islamic education plays in shaping moral character.
Participants, including educational leaders and thinkers, agreed on the necessity of focusing on child development, aiming to cultivate a generation characterized by faith, piety, and strong moral values. Zafar Ahmed, President of the World Association of Islamic Schools, highlighted the role of all stakeholders in the educational ecosystem, including teachers, parents, and school administrators, in fostering a sound upbringing for children.
Challenges Facing Islamic Education Today
Despite the progress made, the conference also addressed the pressing challenges facing Islamic education today. Wajahat Saeed, Chairman of the Al-Furqan Foundation in Chicago, pointed out that the environment surrounding children, particularly the influence of social media and campaigns promoting ideologies contrary to Islamic values, poses a significant threat. He stressed the importance of providing children with a safe and nurturing educational environment through Islamic schools, which can shield them from external pressures.
Additionally, concerns were raised about the quality of educational administration and the need for qualified teachers who can effectively implement Islamic educational principles. Zafar Ahmed warned that a decline in the quality of teaching staff could have serious repercussions for the future of Islamic education.
The Future of Islamic Education: A Unified Vision
Looking ahead, conference participants recognized the urgent need for a comprehensive plan to improve the educational infrastructure of Islamic schools. This includes establishing new institutions, enhancing existing ones, and providing adequate training and resources for teachers. Fahd Haroun emphasized the importance of creating a unified vision for Islamic education that aligns with modern educational needs while remaining rooted in Islamic values.
Despite the diversity of thought and cultural backgrounds among participants, there was a consensus on the need for leadership in Islamic studies and research, as well as academic excellence. The conference concluded with a commitment to fostering a moderate global vision for private Islamic education that can adapt to contemporary challenges while preserving its foundational values.
