Islamic studies: the way forward in the UK

Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, London

17 April 2008

Professor David Eastwood, HEFCE Chief Executive

Why are we looking at Islamic studies?

Government action:

• Siddiqui report – April 2007

• Designated as a strategic subject by government

– June 2007

• HEFCE asked to allocate up to £1 million in

support

• PM’s proposal to establish a European centre of

excellence in the UK – November 2007.

• HESA data – provision specifically identified as Islamic studies

• Student trends

• Increased numbers (635 total)

• Predominance of Asian/Asian British

• Provision dispersed

• Few specialist staff.

What do we know?

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Academic year

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• Extent and range of research provision beyond Religion and Society Research programme

• Extent teaching provision is embedded within other subjects

• Number of students studying Islamic studies as part of other courses

• Other related activity

Qualitative survey will help fill gaps in knowledge.

What do we not know?

• Initial seminar - November 2007

• Discussion with other funders

• Consultation before decisions

• Today’s conference

• International report

• Further policy development.

What are we doing?

• Desk-based study of eight countries: UK, France,

Germany, Netherlands, US, Australia, Malaysia

and Turkey.

• Key themes:

• Interdisciplinary and trans-regional centres

• Networks of scholars

• Links between scholarly community and

faith leaders

• Flexible and introductory modules to

increase access.

International report

• Considering the report of the international study – publication May 2008

• Looking at options

– Identifying priority areas

– Considering different approaches

• Continuing to work with other government departments on developments.

Where are we going?

• Continue consultation

• Bring experts together

• Chance to influence HEFCE’s programme

• Help us address appropriate areas with appropriate focus.

Today’s event

• Seminar today

• Follow up on feedback

• Report back to Board – July 2008

• Proposals to our Strategic Development Fund – September 2008

• Programme of support to start thereafter.

Timetable