A consensus has emerged among observers regarding the state of education, noting a pressing need for a stronger integration of religion and ethics within the educational system. This sentiment shows a belief that the current educational framework critically lacks such foundational elements. This call stems from concerns over the current reality of students, which is widely described as regrettable. The push advocates for foundational changes to address perceived moral decline among students by re-emphasizing ethical principles and religious teachings in their academic development. This perspective posits that the educational system is in dire need of a strong connection to religion and ethics to nurture well-rounded individuals.
Student Behavior Concerns
Students are frequently observed in the streets leading to schools and inside educational institutions, with many exhibiting appearances that do not typically signify student status. These students often display reckless behavior, mischief, and excessive noise. The regrettable reality of students is further evidenced by reports of some students being found involved with drugs, carrying poisons in their bags, and reportedly selling destructive substances in high schools and certain middle schools. The concerns extend to female students, who are described as carrying inappropriate content, or "dirt," on their phones and being primarily concerned with mischief. It is claimed that more than half of the students are dominated by jesting, joking, and play, which reportedly impacts their morals, seriousness, and academic achievement. These behaviors contribute to a perception that students treat serious matters with flippancy and laughter. Study times are reportedly turned into periods of play, laughter, and jesting, undermining the academic environment.
Educational System's Shortcomings
Students reportedly express dislike for teachers who do not permit jesting and play during school hours, indicating a widespread lack of seriousness. While jesting is acknowledged as necessary at certain times, it must be limited and should not overshadow seriousness, according to observers. There is a clear expectation that students must differentiate between appropriate times for serious engagement and moments for play and jesting. A core tenet of this perspective is that schools serve as environments primarily dedicated to seeking knowledge. Similarly, mosques are identified as spaces designated for worship and the remembrance of God, emphasizing the distinct purposes of different institutions. The prevailing norm for a student, it is argued, should encompass seriousness, determination, tranquility, and dignity, reflecting a commitment to their educational journey and personal development.
Moral Foundation and Values
Parents, mothers, teachers, professors, and educational supervisors are reportedly required to focus attention on the ethics of pupils and students, guiding them toward moral conduct. The current school system, however, does not reportedly link student evaluation, grades, or averages to their ethical conduct, creating a perceived disconnect between academic achievement and moral development. Despite this, students learn the Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad, which states, 'The dearest of you to me and the closest to me in position on the Day of Resurrection will be the best of you in character.' They also study the poetry of Ahmed Shawqi, including his verse: "إنّما الأمـمُ الأخلاقُ ما بَقِيَتْ فإنْ هُمُ ذهبتْ أخلاقُهم ذهبوا" (Nations are but morals, as long as they remain; if their morals disappear, they too will disappear). Shawqi also wrote, "صلاحُ أمرِكَ للأخلاقِ مرجعُهُ فقوِّمِ النفسَ بالأخلاقِ تستقمِ" (The rectitude of your affairs is a return to morals; so straighten the soul with morals, and it will be straight), and "وإذا أصيبَ القومُ في أخلاقِهِمْ * فأقمْ عليهم مأتمًا وعويلًا" (And if a people are afflicted in their morals, then hold a funeral and wailing for them). These teachings show the critical importance of ethics in individual and societal well-being. For a Muslim, the primary focus in life should reportedly be seriousness, the pursuit of knowledge, work, and perseverance, aligning with the call for greater moral and ethical integration in education.