HINDUS LEARN SANSKRIT IN MADRASSAS! - UNICEF REPORT - THE FREE PRESS JOURNAL - MUMBAI

http://www.freepressjournal.in/FPJ/FPJ/2009/10/26/ArticleHtmls/26_10_2009_002_015.shtml?Mode=1

SCHOOL OF THOUGHT - HINDUS LEARN SANSKRIT IN MADRASSAS!

NEW DELHI Reveals a research conducted by UNICEF to understand the role of religious minority institutions A UNICEF sponsored study has found that a sizable number of Islamic seminaries in Uttar Pradesh (UP) were not only enrolling Hindus, but also teach them Sanskrit. The study found a large number of Hindu students in Madrassa Islamiya Arabia Alim-UlUlum in Devgaon of Barabanki district of the state. It also found that Hindus would prefer madrassa to local government primary school. The study was conducted by Lucknow-based BETI (Better Education Through Innovation) Foundation, for the UNICEF. The research was aimed to understand the role of religious minority institutions. All the five madrassas under study were operating only with the community support and no government or any other fund was available to them. Their day-to-day expenses were incurred through donations and fees charged from students. "Out of the five, three madrassas are already teaching other subjects besides the religious education," the study found. Unlike the popular conception that madrassas were not open to modern education it was observed that most of the staff and students realised the importance of modern education. The madrassa management lamented that the certificates issued by their institutions were not recognised by the government. "These madrassas provides a wholesome environment for children. This is vital for right growth of mind and body. I find it the most interesting study and one that will help clear a lot of doubts," said Vinoba Gautam, UNICEF education specialist, who was part of the study team.