22/07/2026
Criticising someone for choosing to study Sharia is a misunderstanding of both the subject and the principle of academic freedom. People should be free to pursue the fields of knowledge they value. Too often, the word "Sharia" is reduced to sensational images of corporal punishments, when in reality it is a broad legal and ethical framework that encompasses worship, personal conduct, family life, commerce, justice, charity, and moral responsibility. This narrow perception is often shaped by selective media coverage and political narratives rather than a balanced understanding of the subject. Historically, Islamic civilisation made significant contributions to human knowledge, preserving and expanding the sciences during the medieval period. Scholars working in the Islamic world advanced mathematics, medicine, astronomy, engineering, and philosophy. The development of algebra by the Persian mathematician is one well-known example of contributions that later influenced scientific and technological progress worldwide. At its core, the study of Sharia seeks to cultivate justice, integrity, compassion, accountability, and ethical behaviour. Academic qualifications alone do not guarantee moral character, as corruption can be found among highly educated individuals as well as the less educated. Many societies, including in parts of Africa, particularly the Gambia and elsewhere, have witnessed corruption involving people with advanced degrees. This illustrates that education without strong ethical values is not sufficient. Rather than dismissing Islamic Studies or Sharia based on misconceptions, it is more constructive to understand its broader intellectual, historical, and moral dimensions alongside other academic disciplines.
Citizens Network Gambia (CNG) is a private online platform that seeks to discuss politics, current affairs, sports etc. The network will also serve as a platform for young people to be heard as a medium of communication to the powers in nation building.