Objectives of Learner’s Education and Upbringing in Iqbal’s Epistemic Philosophy

Abstract

The core idea of Iqbal's epistemic philosophy is Khudi, which may be interpreted as self-actualization or self-realization in Abraham Maslow's theory of hierarchy of needs. Iqbal expected Muslims, and especially the youth, to reclaim their preeminent position in the fields of science, technology, and moral standards. Iqbal demonstrated via his thought-provoking poetry that Muslims knowledge and wisdom served as the foundation for the development of Western civilization. Currently, the primary goals of the education systems in Muslim nations seem to prepare their youth for employment, which is incompatible with a child's learning faculties. This study aims at developing educational objectives for holistic development of learner in light of Iqbal’s concept of Khudi. Qualitative methods were used to explore and develop the aims and objectives of holistically developing and educating the learners. Data was collected from the poetry of Iqbal and analyzed through content analysis technique using NVivo 12.0 software. The study's findings reveal that there are several concepts in Iqbal's poetry that might be applied to the creation of new learning objectives specially Khudi. The research recommends a model of learning process based on the relationship of Khudi with self-realization and transcendental learning. The challenge of the hour is to build innovative platforms and organizations in line with Iqbal's epistemic vision, along with modern pedagogical techniques and a stimulating environment.