The international conference held in Islamabad on Girls Education in Muslim Communities: Challenges and Opportunities, organised by the Muslim World League (MWL) was a milestone event whose significance cannot be overstated. The gathering brought together scholars, leaders and activists from across Muslim-majority countries to deliberate on challenges faced by girls in accessing education, a cause that has long been hindered by a combination of social and cultural barriers.
The MWL’s effort in convening this conference is both commendable and timely, especially in a world where narrative surrounding the rights of women and girls continues to face distortion and misinterpretation. The choice of Pakistan as the venue for this important dialogue adds further pride, underscoring country’s central role within the Muslim world and its commitment to addressing pressing issues of education, particularly for women. The core of this conference, however, laid in the urgent need to address and correct misconceptions surrounding the role of education for women in Islam. It is a fact that Islam places a high value on knowledge, both for men and women. Unfortunately, in certain parts, these values have been obscured by entrenched cultural norms and erroneous interpretations of religious texts. Discussions at the conference reinforced the message that Islam not only supports but also encourages education of women as a key to societal progress.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his address, rightly highlighted the fact that millions of young girls entering the workforce in coming decades will have the potential to not only uplift their families and communities but also contribute significantly to the global economy. His call to global organisations, philanthropists and entrepreneurs to work alongside governments in creating scalable and sustainable solutions for education is a rallying cry for action.
The PM’s vision for a future where no girl is denied the right to education is one that resonates deeply in the context of both Pakistan and the broader Muslim world. The resolve demonstrated at the conference provides hope that progress is not only possible but also inevitable. It is clear that deliberations such as these must continue to ensure that rights of girls to education are not only recognised but also actively promoted.
By fostering collaborations, exchanging best practices, pooling resources and launching joint initiatives, the Muslim nations can create a future where every girl has the opportunity to learn, thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.
