The Future of Muslim Education in the 

United States: An Agenda for Research 

Fathi Malkawi 

Abstract 

This paper addresses some of the Muslim community's con­

cerns regarding its children's education and reflects upon how 

education has shaped the position of other communities in 

American history. It argues that the future of Muslim education 

will be influenced directly by the present realities and future 

trends within American education in general, and, more impor­

tantly, by the well-calculated and informed short-term and 

long-term decisions and future plans taken by the Muslim 

community. The paper identifies some areas in which a well­

established knowledge base is critical to making decisions, and 

calls for serious research to be undertaken to furnish this base. 

Introduction 

During the last decade, the presence oflslam and Muslims has become 

a subject of discussion in the national media, a topic of research in strate­

gic studies centers, and part of the official discourse. A few visionary 

individuals have influenced the development of this Muslim presence 
during the last few decades; however, more systematic futuristic think­

ing and long-term planning have become imperative for Muslim intel­

lectuals, activists, and institutions if Muslims are to take their rightful 
place within the American fabric. The need for such strategic planning 

has become even more vital since the events of 9/11, as drastic chal­

lenges now face Muslims in all walks of life, particularly regarding their 

children's education. 

Fad1i Malkawi has a Ph.D. in science education and the ph i losophy of science. He currently 
serves as the director of research at the International Institute of Is lamic Thought, Herndon, 
Virginia.