In a statement on the occasion of the start of the 2024-2025 academic year, Kenan Çaplık, the Vice President of the Foundation, highlighted the crucial role of education in shaping the future of children and offered several recommendations for reform.

Çaplık emphasized that the quality of education directly impacts the well-being and salvation of the nation, both in this world and the hereafter. He stressed the need to move away from Western education models and instead develop a curriculum rooted in Islamic values.

"The education curriculum must be prepared in the shadow of the Qur'an and inspired by the Qur'an," Çaplık said. He argued that Islamic scholarship has historically guided scientific and academic progress, and that Western knowledge should be integrated with Islamic values. He urged authorities to consider feedback from stakeholders, including non-governmental organizations, to address curriculum issues effectively.

Çaplık also criticized the continued practice of coeducation in Türkiye, calling it "thought-provoking and sad" given the global trend towards ending coeducation. He called on authorities to accommodate parents who prefer single-gender education and to respect their preferences.

Additionally, Çaplık proposed that mosques and schools collaborate more closely, suggesting that mosque facilities and school programs be combined to enhance education. He recommended encouraging students to attend Friday prayers at local mosques and integrating Qur'an education into early school years.

The statement also included a call for schools to officially celebrate Mawlid Al Nabi Week, from September 15th to 21st. Çaplık urged school administrations and teachers to plan activities that involve the community and parents during this period.

In closing, Çaplık invited parents to engage more actively in their children’s education and foster cooperation with teachers. He expressed hopes for a successful academic year and for students and teachers to achieve educational excellence.

The Prophet’s Lovers Foundation aims to promote an education system aligned with Islamic teachings and values, reflecting a broader vision for educational reform in Türkiye. (ILKHA)