South Sulawesi Tackles Quranic Illiteracy Through Ramadan Reading Programme

Makassar (ANTARA) — The South Sulawesi (Sulsel) Education Agency has launched the Ramadan Andalan Mengaji programme as part of efforts to prevent and eradicate Quranic illiteracy at the senior secondary and vocational school level.

The annual initiative involves several parties, including the Indonesian Youth Mosque Communication Agency (BKPRMI), to oversee activities running from 23-28 February 2026 across all senior and vocational secondary schools throughout South Sulawesi.

The programme is also in line with central government directives through a joint circular issued by the Minister of Education, the Ministry of Religious Affairs, and the Ministry of Home Affairs concerning activities during the month of Ramadan.

The circular has been realised through the Ramadan Andalan Mengaji programme as an effort to prevent and eradicate Quranic illiteracy in schools whilst strengthening Quranic literacy as part of instilling character values in students.

“This is also aimed at preventing Quranic illiteracy among schoolchildren who cannot read the Quran. We are making every effort through this programme to guide them so they can recite the Quran,” said Iqbal.

During the new student intake period, Iqbal noted, the Education Agency has also instructed schools to record students’ Quran reading abilities under the categories of poor, moderate, and fluent.

Furthermore, through this annual Ramadan programme, efforts are also being made to consolidate Quran reading skills and encourage students to memorise the 30th chapter (juz) of the Quran.

The South Sulawesi Education Agency is also encouraging private schools to independently participate in the Ramadan Andalan Mengaji programme. Meanwhile, students of other faiths are also provided with religious strengthening activities in accordance with their respective beliefs.