TThe Punjab Compulsory Teaching of the Holy Quran Act 2018 is a foundational educational statute in the province. It mandates the teaching of the Holy Quran as a compulsory subject for Muslim students, ensuring that religious education is integrated into the formal schooling system across Punjab.
Punjab Compulsory Teaching of the Holy Quran Act 2018: Scope and Application
The Punjab Compulsory Teaching of the Holy Quran Act 2018 was enacted to provide for the compulsory teaching of the Holy Quran to Muslim students in both public and private educational institutions. This ensures that students develop a fundamental understanding of the text as part of their core academic journey.
1. Short Title and Citation
This legislation is officially cited as the Punjab Compulsory Teaching of the Holy Quran Act 2018. It provides the legal mandate for the Punjab Curriculum and Textbook Board (PCTB) to develop appropriate syllabi and textbooks for different grade levels.
2. Targeted Application
The Act applies specifically to Muslim students in all educational institutions within the Province of Punjab. It is important to note that:
It covers both public sector schools and private educational institutions.
Non-Muslim students are exempt from this specific requirement, respecting the constitutional right to freedom of religion.
3. Commencement
The Act came into force at once in 2018. Following its enactment, the provincial government began a phased implementation, starting with Naazrah Quran (recitation) in primary grades and moving toward translation and explanation in higher classes.
Key Requirements for Educational Institutions
Under this legal framework, schools and colleges must adhere to several mandates:
Curriculum Integration: The Holy Quran must be taught as a separate, compulsory subject.
Grade-Specific Learning: * Grades I-V: Focus on the “Naazrah” (reading of the Arabic text).
Grades VI-XII: Focus on the translation and basic interpretation of the text.
Teacher Qualification: Institutions are encouraged to engage qualified teachers specifically for the instruction of the Holy Quran.
Regulatory Monitoring: The Department of Education and various regulatory bodies monitor compliance to ensure the subject is being taught according to the approved syllabus.
