What are the proofs of Ibn Uthaymeen regarding the impermissibility of studying in mixed-gender schools for men, and what are your proofs for its permissibility for men while adhering to Sharia-compliant regulations?
Shaykh Al-Uthaymeen generally considered mixed-gender education to be forbidden due to the dangers it poses to chastity and morals, unless necessity dictates otherwise. In such cases, it becomes permissible, but with the obligation to avoid temptation (fitnah). The methodology of the fatwa is based on considering general mixed-gender environments as objectionable, whereas mixed-gender environments that adhere to the strictures of Islamic law are permissible. There is no contradiction between the two fatwas. The Shaykh viewed it as forbidden because safety from temptation is difficult to achieve, while the methodology views it as permissible on the assumption of safety, while acknowledging the difficulty of such a state.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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