Reconsidering professional values in Muslim school education: a qualitative needs analysis informed by al-Ghazali’s educational thought in Sri Lanka

Jemeela, Jalaldeen and Al-Hidabi, Dawood Abdulmalek Yahya (2026) Reconsidering professional values in Muslim school education: a qualitative needs analysis informed by al-Ghazali’s educational thought in Sri Lanka. Mishkath Journal of Interdisciplinary Research, 1 (1). pp. 37-58. ISSN ISSN 3121-5408

PDF - Published Version Restricted to Repository staff only Download (1MB) | Request a copy

Abstract

This study examines the need for an Islamic Professional Values Framework for the teaching profession in Muslim schools in Sri Lanka through the lens of Imam al-Ghazali's educational philosophy. Despite the central role of Islamic values in Muslim education, limited empirical research has explored how these values are perceived and practiced by teachers in the Sri Lankan context. Employing an interpretive qualitative design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight purposively selected participants, including teachers, principals, a curriculum developer, and an Islamic education expert. The interview data were analyzed thematically using ATLAS.ti.The findings are presented according to three research questions. First, participants unanimously affirmed that Islamic values are fundamental to the teaching profession, viewing teaching as both amānah (a sacred trust) and ʿibādah (an act of worship), while expressing concern over an increasing emphasis on material and administrative priorities. Second, respondents identified ikhlāṣ (sincerity), amānah (trustworthiness), raḥmah (compassion), ʿadl (justice), ṣabr (patience), honesty, integrity, responsibility, and uswah ḥasanah (exemplary conduct) as the essential values that Muslim teachers should embody. Third, participants reported that teachers' commitment to these values is inconsistent, citing declining ethical practices alongside examples of exemplary educators who continue to model Islamic character.The study concludes that a significant gap exists between the Islamic ideals of the teaching profession and contemporary practice in Muslim schools in Sri Lanka. The findings provide empirical evidence supporting the development of a contextually relevant Islamic Values Framework to guide teacher recruitment, professional development, and ethical practice in Muslim schools.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Professional Values, Muslim School Education, A Qualitative Needs Analysis, Al-Ghazali’s Educational Thought, Sri Lanka
Subjects:	BPL Islamic education > BPL27 Aims and objectives of education. Sustainable education
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Education Kulliyyah of Education > Department of Curriculum & Instruction
Depositing User:	Professor Abdulmalek Yahya Al-Hidabi Dawood
Date Deposited:	07 Oct 2026 11:25
Last Update:	07 Oct 2026 11:51
Queue Number:	2026-10-Q5471
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/131749
Indexed In:	UNSPECIFIED

Actions (login required)

View Item