Islamic religious education in Singapore : making it relevant to global demands.

Abstract

This study provides a brief history of the Madrasahs or Muslim religious schools in Singapore over the 20th century, and concentrates on the evolution of their curriculum. It offers a comparative analysis of government schools with the remaining madrasahs, as well as the transformation currently underway of the madrasah system of education. Finally it suggests ways in which these madrasahs may retain relevance and become important conveyors of the essential message of Islam - peace and compassion, as well as strategic partners in the fight against extremism.