Kashmirs Muslim clerics learn English to turn global

Steadfast to go global, Muslim clerics in Kashmir have enrolled themselves in a university to learn English.

Awantipora (Jammu and Kashmir), June 21 : Steadfast to go global, Muslim clerics in Kashmir have enrolled themselves in a university to learn English.

Over 36 clerics from mosques across the state have enrolled for an 'Intensive English Course' at the University of Science and Technology in Awantipora.

The clerics have realised English is well on its way to becoming a dominant global language of communication, which could help them convey the message of their religion to others.

Mohammad Hanifuddin, a cleric-turned English student said that we are learning English to teach others about our faith.The full-time course for one year would equip the clerics with better language skills, which they hope would help them travel outside the country.

"English is the easy way of communication. Arabic is only limited to a few countries including Saudi Arabia. When we go to some foreign country such as America or Europe, we won't be able to communicate in Arabic and would need English for the purpose. We also need English in southern India," said Tanveer-Ur-Rehman Vani, another cleric-turned-student.

Interestingly, most of their teachers are women, who found their senior students more receptive and serious about the academics.

"It's difficult a bit, but then these all are intelligent - as they are Muftis and Moulvis. Their motivational and learning levels are quite high. They are doing quite fine and hopefully would do so in the future," said Syed Rubina, an English teacher, Islamic University of Science and Technology.

Besides helping them overcoming language barrier, the course would also open up avenues for higher education to the clerics. (ANI

ANI