Rights of Students

Saqib al-Hasan Attari

(Dawrah al-Hadith, Jamiat al-Madina Faizan-e-Baghdad, Karachi)

Education stands as the exclusive avenue for the advancement and enrichment of nations. Beyond fostering societal prosperity, it profoundly shapes the character and demeanour of a nation. Within this framework, students and teachers play pivotal roles in the realm of education. A teacher, due to his specific position and status, holds great respect and virtue. Alongside this, there are certain rights attributed to this position that, when fulfilled, not only promote the philosophy of Islamic life but also contribute to the creation of an exemplary society.

A student holds individual and collective rights, the fulfilment of which can make teaching a pleasant and effective practice. This can only occur when these rights are fully met. In this context, six rights of students are mentioned:

1.   Affection and Love: It is crucial for teachers to approach their students with kindness and warmth. This not only conforms to the Islamic manners of education but also enhances the teaching process. The noble Prophet صَلَّى الـلّٰـهُ عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم is the teacher of mankind, and his remarkable biography provides lessons in gentleness and affection. Regarding his gentleness, Allah Almighty states:

فَبِمَا رَحۡمَۃٍ مِّنَ اللّٰہِ لِنۡتَ لَہُمۡ ۚ

So, what a great mercy it is from Allah that, O Beloved, you became soft-hearted towards them.[1]

2.   Equal Treatment: Since group teaching is common, it becomes the fundamental right of a student and his fellow classmates to be treated equally.

3.   Motivation: Motivating students and boosting their determination is a key factor in unlocking their potential. This process fosters self-assurance and ignites a genuine enthusiasm to learn and progress. The beloved Prophet صَلَّى الـلّٰـهُ عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم frequently motivated the noble Companions عَـلَـيْهِمُ السَّلَام as a means of teaching the Ummah.

4.   Engaging Teaching Methods: A teacher should adopt evidence-based and interesting methods to teach, utilising appropriate resources and strategies.

5.   Right to Ask Questions: Encouraging students to ask questions. To clarify doubts and eliminate uncertainties about lessons, students ask questions. In such cases, it is the responsibility of the teacher to answer these questions in a friendly manner, ensuring the student is satisfied.

6.   Nurturing Natural Abilities: Each individual possesses inherent qualities and attributes. These emerge when subjected to better educational activities. Upon association with an educational institution, students have the right that teachers foster their natural talents.

Moreover, fostering a positive learning environment, respecting the individuality of students, and ensuring the protection of their rights will contribute to not only the safety of society but also to society becoming a mirror reflecting Islamic culture and civilization. May Allah grant us the ability to uphold the rights of His slaves.

اٰمِیْن بِجَاہِ النَّبِیِّ الْاَمِیْن صلَّی اللہ علیہ واٰلہٖ وسلَّم