Attitudes of Parents Towards Islamic Studies at the University Level: A Case Study of the Department of Islamic Studies, Yobe State University, Damaturu

Abstract

The study investigated the attitudes of parents towards sending their ward to pursue Islamic Education as a course at the university level. The study became imperative because the department is one of the richest departments in the university in terms of staff strength and its programs both at undergraduate and post graduate are fully accredited. Despite all these, there has been constant decline in student enrollment compared to other departments in the university. The main objective of the study is to identify the causes of this negative attitude, assess its effects on the department and the society; come out with strategies for enhancing parental engagement and support for Islamic studies, to improve student enrollment and academic outcomes. To explore the causes of this trend, the study adopted survey research design and the data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods, including frequency counts and percentages. The study identified that many parents have the notion that professional courses are the only marketable and Islamic Education is confined to mosques and it is for moral upbringing only. The study recommends increase awareness of parents on the potentials of Islamic Education.