CO-EDUCATION IN EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS: REVIEW AND WAY FORWARD FOR A SUITABLE MODEL

Abstract

Co-education as an educational system is widely adopted in almost all developed countries as well as in many of the underdeveloped nations. It plays a pulsating role in shaping modern societies by promoting human development, developing social skills, promoting understanding between genders, inspiring respect for assorted viewpoints and helping in advancement across diverse fields. Despite its growing acceptance, concerns have been raised by certain societal, religious segments and educational experts regarding its overuse without considering contextual, cultural, and religious differences. There is an ongoing debate about whether the co-education model is universally suitable, or it requires alternative models or needs some minor changes in the existing model in religious societies and other contemporary communities of the world. This study considers the views of contemporary supporters of enlightened moderation who are fully in favor of co-education. It also examines the concept of co-education through a religious lens of different religions, specifically referencing the Holy Quran, the Holy Prophet (ﷺ) Sunna / Hadith, and the opinions of well-known Islamic scholars who either present a fully a separate educational system for males and females or supporting a modified suitable co-educational system that align with Islamic principles. The primary objectives of the study were to assess perceptions of co-education within an Islamic framework, explore its social and academic impact on male and female students, and propose a culturally appropriate and religiously acceptable educational model for both male and female. The study employed a descriptive research design using a mixed-methods approach that combined in-depth study of literature review, questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews. Due to scarcity of resources, the study was delimited to educational institutions in Islamabad and Rawalpindi regions. Purposive sampling technique was used to select sample. The data was gathered from educational institutions including male and female students, their teachers and parents as well as administrators of the renowned educational institutions. Suitable statistical tools mean & percentages were used for data analysis. Findings revealed that co-education has both advantages and disadvantages. Some literature reviews, and findings of the research tools of the study support it in isolation. Also, data analysis of some respondents advocates it as it fosters gender understanding, competitiveness, and shared learning. Whereas some also raises concerns regarding social distractions, cultural and religious sensitivities, and challenges for female students. Some findings show mixed results and support combine male and female education with certain acceptable conditions. After analysis, it was found that co-education has pros and cons and needs suitable and sustainable system to fulfill the contemporary social, cultural and religious aspects. Based on these insights, the study offers some recommendations to address existing challenges and ensure a more effective, respectful, and inclusive co-educational environment which suits both male and female students. It offers valuable implications for policymakers, curriculum developers, and institutional heads who seek to harmonize modern educational practices with religious values. Future research is encouraged to explore this complex topic further, particularly across different society in general and Islamic society in particular.