Maulavi Amir Khan Muttaqi: The role of scholars and youth in the progress of Afghanistan is important

Afghan Voice Agency (AVA) - Kabul: Mr. Muttaqi, recalling a corner of Afghan history, said: Zafar Hassan Aibak, in his memoirs, depicted the state of the Afghan education system during the rule of Amir Habibullah Khan. He writes: "At that time, only one percent of Afghans were literate, and their education was only provided in private religious schools. There were no formal schools or higher education in Afghanistan, until Amir Habibullah Khan established the Habibiyah School and the Harbi School. The teaching affairs of the Habibiyah School were mainly managed by religious scholars who had been trained in the Deoband School."

He clarified: Although the foundation of formal education in Afghanistan was laid during the reign of Amir Habibullah Khan, the teaching and upbringing of students was the responsibility of religious scholars. These scholars, who also played a role in the fight against British colonialism, not only protected the stronghold of knowledge, but also had an effective presence in the field of jihad. However, colonialism launched extensive negative propaganda against the scholars to tarnish their status and credibility, presenting them as opponents of civilization and progress. Unfortunately, this mentality is still observed in some cases, and as a result, the scholarly status of the scholars and their ideals have remained somewhat hidden from the nation.

The Foreign Minister added: Afghanistan has faced wars and two occupations over the past four decades. Now is the time for the country's wounds to heal. Society is like a house; just as a house needs different components, society also depends on various institutions for progress and prosperity.

Maulavi Muttaqi emphasized that a healthy and dynamic society needs specialists in various fields. Afghanistan needs doctors, engineers, architects, agriculturists, livestock breeders, electricians, transportation specialists, and industrialists. Therefore, we must make progress in all these areas, train human resources, and take steps towards the development of the country.

Maulavi Muttaqi continued: "Our society is like a garden of colorful flowers, each with its own beauty. This diversity determines the appearance and splendor of the society. We must look at these differences positively and emphasize social solidarity and unity. According to him, "No one should be disappointed! No one should emigrate! Why should anyone leave their country?"

Maulavi Muttaqi emphasized that we must bring back people who have distanced themselves from society and promote positive thoughts in educational institutions so that the country can move towards brotherhood, tolerance, and common progress.

Mr. Muttaqi also said that religious scholars should be aware of current sciences in addition to religious knowledge and be ready to provide social services. According to him, their behavior and character should also be such that they encourage people to religion and present a merciful face of Islamic teachings.

He also added: Adherence to the principles of knowledge, tolerance and unity will pave the way for Afghanistan's progress. He emphasized the importance of the role of scholars in the balanced development of society and called on the younger generation to fulfill their responsibility towards religion and homeland.