Educational Reformations of Sir Syed Ahamad Khan in 19th Century

Abstract

Sir Syed Ahamad Khan's educational thoughts and activities in modern India have influenced the success of the present generation of Indians and are the basis for moving on with modern life. Indian society is a pluralistic society. It is a multi-religious, multi-ethnic and multilingual community, especially including Hindus, Muslims, and Christians. It is in this context that many challenges naturally arise when pursuing modern thinking and educational reformations. This study is structured on the basis that Ahamad Khan's educational reformation thoughts form the basis for the modernization of Indian society. The corruption, malice, and superstitions found in traditional India are still followed in some places. Scientific change is fundamental when proposing solutions to these. The objective of this study was to clarify the educational reformation thoughts of Sir Syed Ahamad Khan and assess the impact of Sir Syed Ahamad Khan's educational reformation thoughts on modernizing India. This research was purely theoretical based. Historical methodology, analytical methodology, comparative methodology, and descriptive methodology are used as research methodologies. The data required for this study are collected as primary and secondary data and analyzed qualitatively. To study the biography of Sir Syed Ahamad Khan as the only primary source of data collection and as a secondary source, the data were collected from different books, research articles, journals, and e-papers written by scholars about Sir Syed Ahamad Khan’s educational reformations. The results of the study emphasize the need for English education and science education mainly in the educational reformations of the country and form the basis for the modernization of Indian society not only educationally but also socially, religiously, and economically. The Educational thoughts and activities of Sir Syed Ahamad Khan are seen as activities aimed at creating a rational society. It is noteworthy that the influence of these thoughts on the present day is seen as a necessity and a practice, beyond the extent to which his thoughts and activities have been successful. The main objective of the education reformation was to emphasize the need for Muslims to build their future and solve their problems and for the benefit of all Indians.