KP Government Significantly Increases Grant for Religious Seminaries, Aims to Integrate Modern and Religious Education

In a major step towards supporting religious education in the province, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced a significant increase in the grant allocated for religious seminaries. As revealed by the Information Adviser to the KP Government, Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, the annual grant has been raised from Rs 30 million to Rs 100 million. This important decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur.

This move underscores the provincial administration’s commitment to the welfare and advancement of students enrolled in religious seminaries across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The announcement marks a pivotal moment in the province's educational strategy, aimed at bridging the gap between religious and modern education.

Religious Seminaries: An Integral Part of the Educational Framework

Religious seminaries, commonly referred to as madaris, have long played a significant role in the educational and spiritual upbringing of many students in Pakistan. They are not only centers of Islamic learning but also provide free education, boarding, and lodging to thousands of underprivileged students. Recognizing this contribution, the KP government has decided to increase financial support for these institutions.

Barrister Saif emphasized the importance of these seminaries, stating that the students enrolled in these institutions are a “valuable asset to the nation.” He further noted that the government acknowledges their potential and is taking concrete steps to support their development.

From Rs 30 Million to Rs 100 Million: A Strategic Leap

The decision to more than triple the grant—from Rs 30 million to Rs 100 million—indicates the government’s resolve to prioritize religious education alongside formal schooling. This increase in funding is not just financial support; it also reflects a broader vision of inclusivity and balanced development.

According to Barrister Saif, this financial assistance will be utilized to improve infrastructure, enhance curriculum development, and provide essential facilities in religious seminaries. It is expected that the increased grant will help standardize educational quality in madaris and support their efforts in producing well-rounded scholars.

Integration of Religious and Modern Education: A Key Priority

One of the highlights of Barrister Saif’s statement was the emphasis on integrating religious and modern education, which he described as the "need of the hour." In today’s rapidly changing world, equipping students with a blend of traditional religious instruction and modern knowledge is seen as a fundamental strategy to ensure that they become productive and enlightened members of society.

The KP government has expressed a strong desire to align the curriculum of religious seminaries with contemporary educational standards. This would allow seminary students to acquire skills in science, technology, languages, and other secular subjects, thereby expanding their career opportunities and participation in the broader economy.

Efforts are also underway to initiate teacher training programs, establish a more robust administrative framework, and introduce examination systems that align with national educational standards.

Education for All

Under the leadership of PTI founder Imran Khan and the dynamic direction of CM Ali Amin Gandapur, the KP government is pushing forward with comprehensive educational reforms. These reforms not only aim to upgrade public schools but also seek to modernize religious seminaries.

The provincial government believes that a balanced approach—one that values both religious teachings and modern education—is essential for the development of a progressive and harmonious society.

This perspective aligns with the PTI’s long-standing vision of promoting equitable and inclusive education across all sectors of society. By increasing the budget for seminaries and focusing on educational integration, the KP administration is taking concrete steps to turn this vision into reality.

A Focus on Human Capital Development

Barrister Saif’s remarks highlight a broader theme of human capital development, where investments in education are seen as investments in the future of the province. By empowering seminary students with additional knowledge and skills, the government aims to reduce socio-economic disparities and provide equal opportunities to all segments of the population.

Many seminary students come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and the increased funding is expected to ease financial burdens, improve learning environments, and open pathways to higher education and employment.

Educational Institutions Across KP to Benefit

While the increased grant specifically targets religious seminaries, Barrister Saif also pointed out that the government is paying special attention to all educational institutions across the province. The goal is to bring about an educational renaissance where both public schools and seminaries thrive in a supportive ecosystem.

New projects for infrastructure development, teacher training, curriculum reforms, and digitalization are being rolled out across various districts in KP. The government’s broader aim is to eliminate educational inequalities, enhance literacy rates, and prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century.

Public Response and Future Outlook

The public and education stakeholders have largely welcomed the announcement. Religious scholars, seminary administrators, and civil society members have praised the KP government’s proactive approach. They believe that this initiative will help modernize religious institutions and make seminary education more relevant in today’s world.

Looking forward, the KP government plans to monitor the utilization of these funds through a transparent and accountable mechanism. It also intends to collaborate with educational boards, religious scholars, and policy experts to ensure that the integration of modern education into religious seminaries is both meaningful and sustainable.