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The growing influence of Islam within Pakistan's education system is raising concerns in academic circles. In a recent incident in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamic clerics coerced a university professor to renounce Charles Darwin's theory of evolution, igniting anxiety.
Professor Sher Ali became a target after he discussed women's rights in Islam. He defended his teaching of Darwin's theory, which is part of the course textbook, but eventually succumbed to public pressure and issued an apology.
However, this caused a large number of reactions, and Islamic scholars forced the professor to condemn Charles Darwin's theory. Darwin's theory has been attracting attention since the moment when the eponymous author published 'On the Origin of Species'
That book, published in 1859, marked a new era in the understanding of the origin of the human species. This theory not only attracts attention in the Islamic world, but also throughout the planet Earth. Opinion regarding this theory is divided.
While some on the other side believe in the truth of this theory, there are also those who are against it. In any case, this theory will always cause controversy.
Pakistani system
This situation underscores the persistent debate surrounding the theory of evolution in Pakistani curricula.
Academics, including prominent figures like Farhat Taj, emphasize the contentious nature of this issue. The incident highlights the challenges faced by educators who seek to impart scientific knowledge that conflicts with certain religious beliefs, and the implications it has on academic freedom and the curriculum within Pakistan.
Many wonder if this limits the Pakistani school system, and how democratic it is in its application. It is certain that such situations will cause a large number of reactions. It seems that in many schools around the world, there are certain restrictions, and children do not have the freedom to learn things 'outside' the curriculum.
The availability of the Internet has greatly helped many countries to see the bigger picture. We will see what the future holds and whether the authorities will change many more things in the school system.