By: Dr. Ashraf Amin
The integration of Islamic Studies within the framework of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 reflects a deep alignment with the values and goals set out by the Policy. The NEP 2020 envisions an education system that goes beyond academic excellence to nurture well-rounded, socially responsible individuals with a strong ethical grounding. Islamic Studies, as an academic discipline, complements these objectives by imparting not only intellectual knowledge but also ethical, social, and emotional wisdom.
The Role of Islamic Studies in NEP 2020
NEP 2020 stresses the importance of developing “foundational capacities” such as literacy and numeracy, alongside “higher-order cognitive capacities” like critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical reasoning (NEP 2020, p. 4). Islamic Studies, in its core essence, embodies these elements through its focus on both intellectual development and moral grounding. For instance, courses like “Islamic Social Sciences”, “Islam and Social Justice”, and “Islam and Human Rights” emphasize critical engagement with real-world issues, fostering a sense of social responsibility and ethical conduct. This is in direct alignment with the policy’s call for nurturing ethical, compassionate, and socially responsible individuals.
Moreover, Islamic Studies emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, which is central to NEP 2020’s vision of preparing students for a swiftly changing world. The curriculum in Islamic Studies addresses global concerns such as “Islam and the Environment”, “Islam and Bio-ethics”, and “Islamic Finance”, directly engaging students with contemporary issues and encouraging them to think critically about their roles in society and the world at large.
NEP 2020 and the Ethical Vision of Education
One of the core tenets of the NEP 2020 is its emphasis on value-based education. The policy aims to build character and ethical dispositions, encouraging students to be rational, compassionate, and caring while equipping them for gainful employment and meaningful life roles (NEP 2020, p. 3). Islamic Studies, through courses like “Islamic Psychology”, “Ethical System of Islam”, and “Islamic Reformist Thought”, contributes directly to this vision by fostering a holistic understanding of ethical values grounded in Islamic teachings. These values emphasize justice, equality, compassion, and responsibility, all of which are essential for the development of a well-rounded individual in today’s world.
Social and Civic Responsibility in Islamic Studies
NEP 2020 stresses the importance of preparing individuals who are not only intellectually curious but also capable of constructive public engagement and productive societal contribution (NEP 2020, p. 32). Islamic Studies inherently cultivates this spirit by encouraging students to engage with issues of social justice, communal harmony, and economic justice. The discipline’s focus on “Tasawwuf” (Sufism) and “Islamic Social Sciences” allows students to explore the ethical dimensions of social relationships, community building, and global cooperation. It emphasizes the importance of empathy, respect for diversity, and a commitment to the common good — ideals that are central to the NEP 2020’s vision of education for citizenship and societal well-being.
Cross-Cultural and Inter-disciplinary Learning
The NEP 2020 encourages an education system that is inclusive, diverse, and rooted in an interdisciplinary approach. Islamic Studies, with courses such as “Islam and Inter-Faith Dialogue”, “Major World Religions Other Than Islam”, and “Islam and Orientalism- Colonial and Post-colonial Studies”, supports this goal by fostering a deep understanding of both Islamic and non-Islamic cultures and worldviews. These courses encourage students to engage with global perspectives, enhancing cross-cultural understanding and cooperation — crucial for the development of global citizens in the 21st century.
Additionally, the NEP 2020 emphasizes the integration of technology in education. In this context, courses such as “Islamic Finance” and “Islamic Business Ethics” have significant relevance, given the growing intersection of technology, business, and ethics in the modern world. These courses not only provide a grounding in ethical decision-making but also introduce students to innovative fields such as Islamic fintech and sustainable investment, promoting both technological literacy and ethical awareness.
Islamic Studies and the Vision of 21st-Century Education
The NEP 2020 places strong emphasis on preparing students for a dynamic, ever-evolving world by promoting qualities such as creativity, intellectual curiosity, and constructive contribution to society (NEP 2020, p. 32). Islamic Studies, with its broad-ranging curricula, plays an important role in developing these qualities. By engaging with topics like Islam and Science, Islamic Psychology, and Islamic Art and Architecture, students are encouraged to think creatively, critically, and with deep intellectual engagement. These courses help cultivate an academic environment where students can explore the intersection of faith, reason, and human flourishing — essential components of a holistic education.
Conclusion
The integration of Islamic Studies within the context of the NEP 2020 showcases its relevance and importance in the contemporary educational landscape. The discipline line up with the policy’s emphasis on holistic development, ethical education, social responsibility, and interdisciplinary learning. By equipping students with both intellectual and moral tools, Islamic Studies contributes significantly to the development of individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also ethical, compassionate, and responsible citizens. Thus, Islamic Studies serves as an essential component of the 21st-century education that NEP 2020 envisions — an education that shapes thoughtful, well-rounded, and globally aware individuals.
