STUDENTS are considered the main pillars of society because they are reservoirs of knowledge and learning. As students engage in formal education, they acquire critical knowledge, skills and perspectives necessary for the advancement and well-being of communities. In this era of temptation, students are targeted by instigators since they are still in the developmental stage of life. They have access to a diverse array of individuals throughout their educational journey, including peers, teachers, mentors and influencers. These interactions make them susceptible to the propagation of instigators’ views to a wider audience. Furthermore, as future leaders or colleagues in organizations, they may inadvertently promote misguided ideas.
Today, one of the most insidious sources of misinformation is social media platforms such as YouTube, Facebook and Instagram, where self-proclaimed scholars or instigators broadcast their religious views. Students, often unfamiliar with basic Islamic principles, are particularly vulnerable to blind adherence that can lead them away from the true essence of Islam and their religious roots.
Islam provides guidance in all aspects of life, serving as the final and complete code of life chosen by the Almighty for the entire humanity. Islam stands as one of the world’s major religions, significantly influencing social interactions and personal behaviour. Therefore, it is crucial for students to grasp Islamic principles, equipping them with essential tools to navigate the challenges of modern life.
As students consistently interact with people from diverse backgrounds in educational institutions or workplaces, familiarity with Islamic teachings becomes invaluable. Understanding these teachings fosters ethical behaviour, respect for others’ rights and the development of good manners. Such awareness enhances interactions, promoting honesty and empathy and facilitates understanding and mutual respect for the values and beliefs of Muslim peers.
Islam places a strong emphasis on values such as compassion, honesty and integrity that are fundamental traits in both personal and professional contexts. Students who internalize these moral lessons develop a sense of accountability towards themselves and others, fostering environments characterized by honesty and trust. Those well-versed in Islam are better prepared to uphold these principles and lead by example, whether as future organizational leaders or educators.
However, a gap exists between students and Islamic scholars (Ulema), often due to students’ reluctance to approach them, driven by misconceptions about extremism in Islam. To bridge this gap, Ulema should organize training sessions aimed at imparting fundamental Islamic knowledge to students and understanding their perspectives. Effective engagement requires Ulema to adopt modern approaches, recognizing and valuing students’ contributions to society and their nation’s future.
Training sessions can be held in educational institutions or mosques, covering essential Islamic principles, dispelling common misconceptions and encouraging open dialogue. Building personal relationships with students, serving as mentors and role models, can help bridge the gap and foster trust and unity between students and Ulema. Moreover, students should be encouraged to consult local Ulema regarding religious matters rather than relying on unknown scholars from social media platforms.
—The writer is an MPhil scholar in Finance at University of Peshawar.
