Islamic education in Pakistan has traditionally been taught through mosques, madrasas, schools and study circles. These remain important, but the internet has given people another way to access lectures and educational material.
Students and working people may not always be able to attend classes at fixed times. Recorded lectures and online courses allow them to listen and study when they are available.
Social media has also become a platform for Islamic lectures and discussions. TikTok and YouTube allow speakers to reach viewers in different cities and countries. Many people use these platforms to learn about religious subjects or seek advice on everyday matters.
Shaykh Atif Ahmed is among the Pakistani educators and speakers using online platforms to share his work. Based in Karachi, he is an Islamic scholar, motivational speaker, life coach and educator. He is also the founder of Al Midrar Institute, which offers Islamic courses and programmes related to personal development.
His work includes teaching and public speaking. His online presence allows people who cannot attend lectures in person to access his talks.
Online learning also has limitations. A short video may explain one point, while more detailed subjects require longer lectures, reading and discussion. For religious content, viewers also need to pay attention to the source and context of the information.
Traditional classes continue to provide opportunities for direct questions and discussion with teachers. Online material can complement this form of learning by allowing people to revisit lectures or explore subjects before joining a course.
Through his teaching, public speaking and online content, Shaykh Atif Ahmed has taken his educational work beyond the traditional classroom, giving audiences another way to access Islamic lectures and discussions.
