Bridging Tradition and Modernity: Exploring the Rationale for Compulsory Quranic Education in Pakistani Universities

This study explores the objectives and rationale for implementing federally enforced Quranic education in Pakistani universities. In-depth interviews with three university educators (involved in teaching or administering these courses) were completed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). The findings reveal four key themes: countering secularisation, imparting proper Quranic recitation and comprehension, applying the Quranic teachings to contemporary issues, and developing students’ moral character and spiritual growth. This policy is shown to be the product of the complex interplay of religious, educational, and societal factors, as well as the challenge of balancing religious education according to traditional forms with modern pedagogical formulations. Teachers emphasize using Quranic teachings that are relevant and applicable to the students and cultivating students’ critical thinking and ethical reasoning. The study adds to current debates on the place of religion in public higher education and the transformation of Islamic education in modern Muslim society. Implications for future research, policy, and curriculum development are discussed.