NCERT, UNICEF Asked to Explain Role in Bihar Madrassa Curriculum

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has sent notices to the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and the United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) seeking clarification on their involvement in designing curriculums for madrassas in Bihar.

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has issued notices to the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) seeking clarification on their involvement in designing curriculums for madrassas in the Indian state of Bihar.

Bihar Chief Secretary's Response

The NCPCR's inquiry was prompted by the response of the Bihar chief secretary to its summons regarding mapped and unmapped madrassas in the state. In his response, the official highlighted efforts to modernize the madrassa education system, including the development of a comprehensive training module for teachers and the establishment of regional resource centers for ongoing training.

The chief secretary also mentioned the implementation of sports programs and a 21st-century skill development initiative for adolescent girls in Purnia and Kishanganj districts, which was prepared in collaboration between UNICEF and the madrassa board.

Furthermore, the official emphasized that the curriculum of affiliated madrassas in Bihar incorporates elements of mainstream education, as formulated by renowned educational bodies such as the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), NCERT, and the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), among others.

NCPCR's Response

In response to the chief secretary's explanation, the NCPCR sought clarification from NCERT and UNICEF on their specific roles in designing curriculums for madrassas in Bihar and training children to become maulvis (Islamic scholars).

Unsatisfactory Response from Bihar Chief Secretary

The NCPCR has also summoned the Bihar chief secretary over an unsatisfactory response to its queries related to mapped and unmapped madrassas in the state.