A Reformist Cleric: Sheikh Zakiri’s Contribution to Education

A close observation of Kargil and the data from the early 1980s reflect the grim condition of education in the region. The situation of women’s education was even more dismal. During this period, a cleric took the initiative to mobilize a community where education was neither a priority nor a concern where the struggle for survival overshadowed all else.

One of the major challenges before Late Shiekh Zakiri was to negotiate the role of the clergy beyond religious affairs and to make them aware of the transformative power of education. This intent is evident from one of the stated objectives of Mutharri Public School, Kargil, which reads: “To promote awareness amongst the local population as well as the clergy community about the need for modern education along with religious knowledge”. This indicates that, in his mission to reform education in Kargil, Zakiri first had to confront resistance from within the cleric community itself, many of whom discouraged families from sending their children to formal schools.

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However, Zakiri’s vision was clear: he sought to bring societal transformation through education. His determination bore fruit, and he successfully expanded the branches of Mutharri Public School across the Kargil district.

Yet, the people of Kargil have largely failed to acknowledge his contributions. Sadly, the scholastic community has rarely organized events to highlight Zakiri’s efforts in the field of education. This does not mean he is forgotten but every sincere effort deserves due recognition, and Zakiri certainly deserves greater space in academic discourse.

One of the areas where Zakiri successfully brought reform and change was in education. While it may not be an exaggeration to call him the ideological architect of modern Kargil, it is important to acknowledge that several personalities have shaped the region’s contemporary society and politics. Nonetheless, the imprint Zakiri left behind truly reflects his legacy as a reformist. He instilled in the people of Kargil a sense of self-belief and trust at a time when neighboring regions like Kashmir and Leh were experiencing increased exposure through tourism, while Kargil was grappling with its identity and self doubt.

When I referred to him as the ideological architect, I meant to emphasize the depth of his orientation and his understanding of society. He recognized the genuine needs of the people and inspired the masses to pursue transformative goals. Today, his legacy and vision are bearing fruit, the many organizations operating under IKMT stand as testament to his selfless aspiration. Zakiri envisioned Kargil as an ideal and productive society, and that vision is increasingly taking shape through these institutions.

The IKMT, as an organization, needs to engage with scholars to produce well-deserved scholarship on the legacy of Sheikh Zakiri and to pay him a deserving tribute for his services to society as a whole, particularly in the field of education.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Voice of Ladakh or its editorial team.