faith-based education

Had two very interesting and, perhaps, somewhat related conversations today with two former colleagues, one from each of my former workplaces: both of them are now doing further studies in religious education -- one in Boston, the other in London. One with a special interest in Catholic school leadership, and the other, about to embark on a PhD on madrassah education in Singapore.
.
Faith-based education is an interesting animal. AP was saying that a real Catholic school, if it is to be true to the spirit of Catholicism, would have to be really counter-cultural in the Singapore context, and i agree with him. i think our former school used to be like that; i'm sad to say it isn't like that anymore. NRA, as well, said something very similar when she pointed out that the stated aims of madrassah education are not the same as the MOE's mission and vision. i wonder if it's possible for faith-based schools to maintain their original vision in the midst of an educational landscape that really gives very little room for difference. Add to that the apparent urgency of the all-pervasive Economic Imperative...
.
It was fascinating, listening to NRA talking so passionately about madrassah education -- something i must admit i knew nothing about before today. It's an entire community, a subculture, really, that most Singaporeans are not familiar with; and i'm glad that NRA feels strongly enough about it that she wants to do something to contribute. It won't be easy. People like her must be very rare. All the more reason why they are needed.
.
.