All set for Hindu students to learn religion in schools

Previously, minority students were taught ethics instead of their own religion: education minister

KARACHI:

The Sindh School Education and Literacy Department has decided to publish religious textbooks for Hindu students studying in Grades III to V in government schools across the province.

On the directive of Sindh Education Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah, a formal letter has been issued to the Sindh Textbook Board (STBB) to ensure the publication and distribution of these books for the academic year 2026–27. The curriculum is being developed in consultation with relevant institutions, including Hindu Sanstha, and subject experts.

In a statement, the minister said providing students from different religious communities with education in their own faith reflects the government's commitment to protecting minority rights. He noted that such a step should have been taken soon after the country's creation. Previously, minority students were taught ethics instead of their own religion, said Shah, adding that the government has now formally recognised their right to religious education.

According to decisions taken at an executive committee meeting of the Sindh Curriculum Council, the STBB will publish the textbooks and ensure their distribution among Hindu students in government schools across Sindh.

According to statistics, as many as 129,119 Hindu students are currently enrolled in grades III to V in public schools, with the highest numbers in Tharparkar (26,642) and Umerkot (21,584). The initiative will initially cover these grades, with textbooks to be distributed province-wide.