A Madarsa seeks to impart modern education,

*A Madarsa seeks to impart modern education,

                                                                                         By Girish Kumar Dubey,

New Kerala, January 26, 2006 http://newkerala.com/news.php?action=fullnews&id=95369

Varanasi: Madarsas, or the Islamic schools, have long been known for their religious syllabus around the world. But, a Madarsa in Varanasi , is offering lessons in patriotism and modern education to its students.

As India celebrates its 57th Republic Day, the loud voice of students in a Madarsa singing "Sare Jahan Se Achha" and "Vande Matram" makes one stop for a moment and take notice of the transformation taking place in the modern India.

"The best thing about this place is that members of both communities—Muslim and Hindu—are taking care of this Madarsa. Kids are being taught here about social and communal harmony," says Dr. Rajni Kant, Director, Human Welfare Association.

This Madarsa intends to prepare students who are able to compete with students of other schools of the country. Thus, it is not only teaching students national songs but also giving them modern education.

Interestingly, Hindus and Muslims are together running this Madarsa. Guardians are happy with the concept of Madarsa and they are confident that one day their kids will set an example to others.

"Our concentration is on to give modern education to children, according to the norms set by the Central and Uttar Pradesh Government. We want our children to become like A.P.J Abdul Kalam, who first became a scientist and then the President of the country, "says Mohammad Shakir Hussain, a parent.

"I wish to become a Doctor and want to serve my country. I have seen people dying of deadly diseases, I want to cure them," says Soni Bano, a student.

Madarasas are traditional educational institutions for the children of Muslims, especially for the poor children who can not afford to go to other schools.

But, in general, the main problem with Madarasa education has been that the students of these institutions cannot compete for mainstream jobs due to their obsolete study curriculum. All they can do is to aspire for jobs of imams and clerks in Wakf-run bodies.