I have written this book in an effort to explore how the history of Pakistan has resulted in the critical problems weighing down its education system. The book examines the questions: Why and how has a small elite class come to rule Pakistan? And how has their rule worsened the country’s problems? The focus will be to critically examine the elements of the Pakistani national curriculum and madrasas and their effects on Pakistani society. The book represents the fusion of my experiences in Pakistan with extensive literature analysis, interviews, and textbook analysis. This research began when I came to the United States in January 2015 through the SAR program. I wanted to know the answers to profoundly unsettling questions. How can a society be so intolerant that a scholar educated solely in Pakistan is disregarded and assassinated while many Western-educated scholars with traditional insular thoughts are not only appreciated but flourishing? I wanted to know why Pakistani elites have so much power and freedom while lower classes are profoundly oppressed. Elites who barely pay taxes have been in power for generations while those that pay taxes suffer from sky-high inflation. The influential religious leaders mostly belong to the elite class while their followers are mostly lower class. Ruling families and social classes mostly control appointed positions. Do those in power not have a responsibility to speak on issues of social justice rather than limiting themselves in claiming that theirs is the only true form of Islam? Why don’t they work to end the disparity of quality education between classes in Pakistan? Instead, many elites run their own lucrative elite Islamic schools. More importantly, why do the ulama (which literally means “those who possess knowledge [ilm], particularly of Islam”) maintain a tight hierarchical system in the madrasa (Islamic seminary) community that rarely allows poor intelligent students to attain leadership positions? Why are the ulama silent in the face of ruthless murder of and discrimination against Pakistani minorities? Book Review: "Pakistan Educational Reforms is a major study of education in Pakistan and its national and madrasa curriculum that fosters national and religious sectarian divisions, intolerance and conflicts. Dr. Amna Afreen documents the political, socio-economic and religious causes-limited government funding, widespread poverty and illiteracy and the poor training and performance of teachers- that have produced a failed educational system at urban and rural government and religious schools (madrasa) and offers a series of potential solutions and reforms." -- John L. Esposito, University Professor and Founding Director of The Alwaleed Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding, Georgetown University.

"United in Faith" offers an insightful exploration into the rich and diverse history of Islam across the 50 United States. This book documents the growth, struggles, and achievements of the Muslim community in America, highlighting their contributions to the nation's cultural, social, and religious fabric. From the early waves of Muslim immigration to the present day, this comprehensive account traces the evolution of Islam in America, shedding light on the challenges faced by Muslims as they sought to establish their identity and practice their faith in a new land. It delves into the experiences of pioneering Muslim individuals and communities, as well as the efforts made to establish mosques, Islamic centers, and educational institutions throughout the country. The book presents a chronological narrative, starting with the earliest Muslim arrivals in the 17th and 18th centuries, such as enslaved Africans who brought their Islamic faith with them. It then explores the contributions of Muslim immigrants from various parts of the world, including the Middle East, South Asia, Africa, and Southeast Asia, who played pivotal roles in shaping the Muslim American community. Readers will discover the significant role Islamic institutions played in fostering a sense of community, providing religious and social services, and promoting interfaith dialogue. The book also examines the challenges faced by Muslim Americans in the wake of major events such as the Civil Rights Movement, and the tragic events of September 11, 2001, which led to an increase in Islamophobia. "United in Faith" highlights the resilience and determination of Muslim Americans in overcoming adversity and striving for social justice, civil rights, and religious freedom. It showcases the rise of prominent Muslim figures across various fields, including academia, politics, sports, entertainment, and activism, who have made significant contributions to American society. Through engaging storytelling, well-researched historical accounts, and personal narratives, this book paints a vivid picture of the complex tapestry of Islam in America. It aims to foster a deeper understanding, appreciation, and acceptance of the Muslim American experience, emphasizing the shared values that underpin the diverse fabric of the United States. "United in Faith" is an essential read for anyone seeking to broaden their knowledge of American history, religious diversity, and the resilience of the Muslim American community as they continue to shape the nation's future.”