2026-02-17 / Question by Private Notice: Registration of Madrasas and Arabic Colleges 2026-02-17
Dr. Hizbullah raised a matter under Standing Order 27(2) concerning the suspension of registration of madrasas and Arabic colleges under the Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs Department since 2020, following instructions from the then Secretary to the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs. He noted that approximately 80 institutions remain unregistered, while Pirivena, Hindu, and Christian religious schools continue to be registered through their respective departments. He argued this disparity has created practical hardships for students, including non-recognition of certificates affecting higher education and employment opportunities, as well as administrative and financial constraints for the institutions. He formally requested the Minister to clarify what steps have been taken to resume registration and to facilitate approval for the pending applications.
Under Standing Order 27(2), I raise the issue of the recommencement of registration of madrasas and Arabic colleges. Since 2020, under instructions of the then Secretary to the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, registration of madrasas and Arabic colleges under the Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs Department has been halted. Meanwhile, Pirivena, Hindu religious schools, and Christian missionary schools continue to be registered by their respective departments.
About 80 Arabic colleges/madrasas that applied remain unregistered for years, causing serious educational, social, and administrative difficulties: lack of official recognition for certificates, hindering higher studies, employment and overseas education; and administrative/banking/financial constraints due to non-registration.
We respectfully request:
1. Can the Minister facilitate the granting of approval to register madrasas and Arabic colleges?
2. What steps have been taken to grant such approval?