On October 19, 2024, the Institute of Policy Studies and Advocacy (IPSA) hosted a one-day workshop at the Indian Social Institute, focusing on the prospects and challenges of conducting research on minorities in the context of social inclusion.
The event aimed to gather key stakeholders—academics, PhD scholars, students, policymakers, and civil society organizations—to discuss the importance of minority studies, particularly regarding the Muslim community in India, and to propose actionable recommendations for aligning research with national and state policies.
The workshop brought together over 40 research scholars and senior academics from various universities, including Jawaharlal Nehru University, Jamia Millia Islamia, and Delhi University. The Social Science Researchers’ meet, titled “Minority Studies in India,” sought to create a collaborative environment for scholars to share insights and identify areas needing further exploration.
Dr. Jawed Alam Khan, General Secretary of IPSA, initiated the discussions by outlining the workshop’s objectives and context. He emphasized IPSA’s ongoing initiatives in minority research and highlighted the necessity for continued dialogue in this field.
Dr. Furqan Qamar, a professor at Jamia Millia Islamia, underscored the critical role of institutions in development and articulated the significant challenges faced by Indian Muslims. He called for studies that investigate the underlying causes of Muslim marginalization, including their access to financial resources, and stressed the importance of producing accessible and critical literature.
Dr. Tanvir Aeijaz from Delhi University contributed to the discourse by examining the distinction between “minority” and “Muslim” in academic literature. He discussed the need for equity and affirmative action, particularly in the context of the Post-Sachar Report, and raised crucial questions about citizenship amid rising deprivation and exclusion practices.
The workshop also featured a panel discussion chaired by Dr. Asheref Illiyan, Professor and Head of the Department of Economics at Jamia Millia Islamia. Dr. Ghazala Jamil, an Assistant Professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University, urged the need for fresh perspectives in studying Muslims, advocating for a shift away from outdated stereotypes. She emphasized areas like land rights, urbanization, and the unique challenges faced by Muslim women.
Dr. Khalid Khan discussed the importance of empirical research on inclusion and development theories, while Dr. Zakaria Siddiqui called for a redefinition of minority status and highlighted the critical gaps in data concerning Muslim communities.
Following the panel, an Open House session allowed participants to share their research and discuss the future of minority studies. Scholars expressed the need for collaborative efforts, research groups, and support mechanisms to foster engagement among minority researchers. The session was addressed by Professor Arvinder Ansari and Dr. Ghazala Jamil, who responded to participants’ questions and concerns.
In conclusion, the workshop highlighted the urgent need for in-depth research on Muslim communities in India, advocating for a multidisciplinary approach to address issues of equity, representation, and social justice. Participants agreed on the importance of forming a dedicated agency for minority research, which could produce newsletters, journals, and foster a network of scholars committed to advancing minority studies in India.
source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> News> Society / by admin india tomorrow / October 25th, 2024
Professor Mazhar Asif of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has been appointed the new vice-chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia, an official statement said Thursday
New Delhi:
Professor Mazhar Asif of JNU has been appointed the new vice-chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia, an official statement said Thursday.
Professor Mazhar Asif, School of Languages JNU, will serve on the post for five years.
“The President of India in her capacity as the Visitor of the university has appointed Professor Mazhar Asif, School of Languages, JNU New Delhi as the vice-chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia for a period of five years,” the statement said.
The appointment of Dr Mazhar Asif, came after Prof. Najma Akhtar demitted Jamia VC office in 2023. Prof Najma was the first and so far only woman VC of Jamia Millia Islamia.
About Prof Mazhar Asif
Born on January 02, 1971, Dr Mazhar Asif is currently serving at Centre for Persian & Central Asian Studies, School of Language Literature & Culture Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.
Prof Mazhar is specialised in Indian Knowledge System, Sufism and Mysticism and has more than 27 years of teaching experience, including over 10 years as Professor.
As per his bio, he is fluent in Assamese, Bhojpuri, English, Hindi, Persian, Urdu and Vajjika.
He is Trustee, Dara Shikoh Research Foundation, Member, North East India History Association, Member, All India Persian Teachers Association and also holds a number of other posts and positions.
A very interesting mention in his bio is that during his time as a student at JNU, Prof Mazhar Asif was a member of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). ABVP is the students wing of the BJP and is affiliated with the right wing RSS.
source: http://www.ummid.com / Ummid.com / Home> Education & Career / by ummid.com news network (headline edited) / October 24th, 2024
“If we only remember Sir Syed over a plate of biryani once a year, we miss the essence of his mission. AMU was created to serve the community, and it’s our duty as graduates to stay true to that vision.”
The Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) recently celebrated the 207th birth anniversary of its founder, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, a visionary leader known for his contributions to education and social reform. On this occasion, Wali Rahmani, a prominent speaker and recipient of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan Award 2024 for Excellence in Education, delivered a compelling message urging the audience to deeply understand the compatibility between science and faith.
During his address, Rahmani challenged the common notion that science and religion are separate, emphasising that the Quran encompasses scientific principles. “To say that one hand holds science and the other the Quran implies that the Quran lacks scientific understanding, which is a misconception,” he stated.
“The Quran isn’t void of science; it contains scientific wisdom. When we speak of education, we must start in the name of Allah. Education divorced from His name isn’t complete.”
Reflecting on Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s legacy, Rahmani highlighted how Sir Syed dedicated his life to the cause of education, building AMU to serve the community. He noted that Sir Syed’s vision extended beyond the establishment of a university; it was about empowering the community through knowledge and service.
“It is essential to remember why leaders like Sir Syed did the work they did,” he remarked, adding, “If we merely commemorate his work without continuing it, we aren’t doing justice to his legacy.”
Rahmani emphasised the need to go beyond token celebrations, stating, “If we only remember Sir Syed over a plate of biryani once a year, we miss the essence of his mission. AMU was created to serve the community, and it’s our duty as graduates to stay true to that vision.”
Expressing his gratitude, Rahmani acknowledged the honour of receiving an award in Sir Syed’s name, though he humbly expressed his doubts about deserving it.
“It’s an honour for my work to be recognised, but I also feel a sense of responsibility,” he shared. “While I cannot force anyone to become like Sir Syed, I can call them towards the truth, towards what is right.”
Rahmani’s words resonated with the audience, reinforcing the values and mission that Sir Syed Ahmad Khan championed – education, community service, and a harmonious integration of science and faith.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards> Education> Focus / by Radiance News Bureau / October 26th, 2024
Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH / Murshidabad, WEST BENGAL :
Aligarh:
Dr. Mahboobur Rahman, Associate Professor in the Department of Sunni Theology at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), has been appointed Director of the AMU Murshidabad Centre in West Bengal. His term will last for one year or until further orders or the convening of the General Selection Committee.
With over two decades of experience in teaching and research in theology, Dr. Rahman has been associated with AMU’s Department of Theology and has also taught at Senior Secondary School (Boys). His teaching portfolio includes a range of subjects such as Islamic culture, Quranic exegesis, Indian religions, sciences of Prophetic traditions, Islamic history, jurisprudence, and social sciences.
Dr. Rahman has authored two books, one of which is co-authored with Prof. Muhammad Ismail from the Department of Islamic Studies, and has published more than 50 research papers and articles in renowned national and international journals.
He previously served as Nazim-e-Deeniyat (Sunni) from 2012-2018, was Joint Editor of Fikr-o-Nazar, President of the Theological Society at AMU, and has been a member of several administrative bodies within AMU and beyond.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau (headline edited) / October 26th, 2024
The long history of social change at Khanqah Rahmani. Where freedom fighters and future leaders meet. Rahmani30 has sent 513 students to different IITs and 838 students to the National Institutes of Technology (NITs)
Munger:
When you reach Khanqah Rahmani during the last asra (phase) of Ramadan, you will find hundreds of people doing itikaf – a ritual, in which faithful reside inside the mosque from the night of the 21st Ramzan till the sighting of the Eid Moon. They pray and fast and reside there only. Mohammed Salauddin, is a regular for itikaf for three decades.
The 64-year-old man remained associated with Khanqah for the last 32 years.
And the obvious question arises, what does he get by giving so many years of his life in the Khanqah?
“Everything,” the tall man gives a single-word answer. And adds, “I am an angutha chap (an illiterate person). For employment, I got a driving license in 1982, and since then I started working for the Rahmani Saheb family. And did other jobs as well but remained attached to the Khanqah.
“Later Salauddin got married and became the father of two sons. Both of his children studied in Jamia Rahmani.
“I became hafiz from Jamia and then did an initial study of Alimiat from here. And went to Deoband for the completion of Alimiat. And took a graduation degree from Munger, MA from CCU Meerat, BEd from Haryana, Mass communication from Jamia Millia Islamia. I cleared state and centre level teacher’s eligibility tests. Then sat in the examination of Bihar Public Service Commission’s TRE2 and became a teacher in February this year,” informs Mohammed Najmuddin, Salauddin’s son. Najmuddin is also pursuing a PhD from Munger University.
Najmuddin is not alone. Along with him, Mohammed Mudassar Usmani (MA, MEd), Akbar (MA, BEd) and Mohammed Hassan (BA, BEd) all are huffaz of Khanqah Rahmani who cleared the BPSC TRE 1 and 2 and have become teachers in 2023 and 2024.
Najmuddin’s elder brother Shahabuddin also a hafiz from Jamia is now an officer in the National Council For Promotion Of Urdu Language, has done a BA from Jamia Millia Islamia, MA from Maulana Azad Hyderabad, qualified NET and done an MPhil from Delhi University before joining NCPUL, Delhi.
“All these were possible for a person like me because of Khanqah Rahmani and its educational centres,” claimed Salauddin, the father.
APJ Kalam and Mohammed Wali Rahmani in Khanqah Rahmani in 2003 | Arranged
The history of Khanqah Rahmani
It was established in 1901 by Maulana Mohammed Ali Mungeri. Since then the Khanqah not only remained as a center for societal reform and purification of souls but also helped freedom fighters during the freedom struggle. Freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawahar Lal Nehru, Abul Kalam Azad and Dr Rajendra Prasad among others stayed at this centre. Former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi also visited the Khanqah.
After Ali Mungeri, Maulana Syed Shah Lutfullah Rahmani, his nephew ran the centre. And thereafter Minnatullah Rahmani and then his son Mohammed Wali Rahmani and now his son Ahmad Wali Faisal Rahmani is taking care of it. His brother Fahad Rahmani is the CEO of Rahmani Programmes of Excellence under which Rahmani30 functions.
Khanqah was also been instrumental in establishing the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, which safeguards Muslims in protecting their personal laws and identities.
Who is Ahmad Wali Faisal Rahmani, the present head?
The chief of Imarat-e-sharia and the secretary of All India Muslim Personal Law Board, Ahmad Wali Faisal Rahmani, is also head of the Khanqah. He has studied Information Technology from the University of California and worked as a teacher there. His professional career also includes working for Adobe and British Petroleum. However, Faisal Rahmani got his early education in Khanqah Rahmani as he got his elementary education in Arabic, Quran, Deeniyat and Mathematics in the Khanqah. He started looking after the activities of the Khanqah after the demise of his father Mohammed Wali Rahmani.
Whenever he gets time from the activities of Imarat Shariah and AIMPLB, he spends time in the Khanqah. He does not let anyone chide even a screaming child. There are a large number of women who come to listen to him. He prefers to eat along with the students and members as well as the faculty of the centre.
Students of Rahmani BEd College | Arranged
Jamia students hold the Quran on one hand and tablets on other
Jamia Rahmani, which came into existence in 1927 is one of the several centres run by the Rahmani Foundation , a charity body of Khanqah Rahmani. Jamia’s students not just memorize the Qur’an, but also understand it by learning Arabic.
Here, every student also learns science, English and Mathematics as well and gets tablets for their study. They have smart classes too.
But this is just the beginning for the students. The Khanqah has Rahmani30, to prepare for JEE Advanced (IIT), JEE Mains. It has branches in several cities across India. There is also a centre for Medical (NEET) entrance and for the preparations for Chartered Accountant and Company Secretary entrances. It has a BEd College, which has a large number of female students. Jamia Rahmani has added several new courses after 2011.
“When Ahmad Wali Faisal Rahmani became head here, the first thing he did was, start a one-year Diploma in Mass Communication in journalism course in Jamia. Later started two years of Master in Islamic Jurisprudence Study and last year, a two-year course, Diploma in English Language in Professional Skills also began,” said Fazle Rahma Rahmani, head of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication.
The Khanqah also provides residential facilities to the families of its faculties as well as the cooks. It provides meals to almost 1200 people three times a day. Most of the beneficiaries are the Jamia students and people associated with the Khanqah.
Then there is the Rahmani School of Excellence (where students can get enrolled in a Nursery and study up to standard twelve). In the School Management Committee, Muslims as well as non-Muslims teachers are present, it has females too. And it has a diverse background of students.
“While Jamia Rahmani and Rahmani30’s study is completely free, BEd, school education and other studies have some fee structure. But where there are fees, Khanqah authorities give scholarships to needy students and have a liberal approach to such cases where parents approach the centre. Money never became a hurdle in getting an education from the educational centres related to Khanqah,” points out Fazle Rahma.
Since the inception of Rahmani30, 513 students have been admitted to different IITs in the country. While 838 students reached JEE Advanced to get admission to the National Institute of Technologies (NIT) during the same period.
“Several students of School of Excellence have become IITians so far,” claims Fazle Rahma.
Whereas, many students of different centers of Rahmani30 also take part in the Olympiad, every year.
The Jamia Rahmani’s Taleemgah building was inaugurated by Former President of India APJ Abdul Kalam. Kalam, who wanted to be known as a Professor rather than a former President, in 2003 itself, says a lot about Khanqan’s educational work.
From the stage of Khanqah, the scientist claimed that he was also a student of the Madrasa Board.
However, neither before the visit of the President of India nor after it, did Khanqah Rahmani’s educational works got the attention that it should have got the mainstream media.
source: http://www.enewsroom.in / eNewsRoom India / Home> Education / by Shahnawaz Akhtar / April 09th, 2024
Thirty two students from humble background clear NEET 2023 with the help of Urooj, celebrate medical dreams.
Kolkata :
Three years ago, amidst the fast-paced hustle of Blinkit, grocery deliveries zipped past Mohammed Iqbal. But on Sunday, in a Kolkata school auditorium, a stethoscope draped around his neck marked a stark contrast to his past – a future doctor stood ready to embark on a new journey.
“In 2021, I was an auditor for Blinkit. I have to visit Blinkit stores and check their qualities,” Iqbal, now a student of Bachelor in Dental Studies (BDS) at Burdwan, reminisced. “My father ran a small clothing shop. Juggling studies and supporting my family, NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) coaching seemed like a distant dream. That’s when I found Urooj.”
Urooj Institute, recognizing Ahmed’s financial constraints and demanding work schedule, extended a helping hand. Dr Minhjuddin Khurram, the institute’s anchor man, vividly recalled their first meeting,
“He came in wearing a Blinkit t-shirt. We understood his situation – he couldn’t afford coaching while working in a job where he has to be mobile most of the time. So, we helped him secure a librarian job, allowing him to study for NEET while earning an income.”
Teacher Amrendra Kumar (face not visible) and Dr Minhajuddin Khurram hug each other during the felicitation | eNewsroom
This act of support and understanding proved crucial. With renewed focus and dedication, Ahmed aced the exam on his second attempt. Now, he sets his sights even higher, aiming for an MBBS seat next time.
Similar struggles resonated in the story of Sarfaraz, a former freelance video editor. “My father, a primary school teacher who started working late in life, couldn’t afford luxuries,” Raiyan, now a BDS student, shared. “To support myself, I did video editing. Urooj’s guidance proved invaluable, helping me score 569 marks in NEET 2023.” Like Ahmed, Raiyan plans to retake the exam to improve his rank and qualify for an MBBS seat.
Ashraf, whose father owns a paan shop, and Shenaz, daughter of a bus driver who fell short of an MBBS seat by just one mark in 2022, were among the 32 Urooj students celebrated by renowned practicing doctors in Kolkata.
The evening buzzed with stories of resilience and triumph, each one a testament to the transformative power of opportunity.
Urooj’s students with the felicitating doctors | eNewsroom
Urooj also recognized its partners, including Headmaster Mohammed Alamgir of MD High School. His words resonated throughout the hall, “The government invests heavily in each doctor’s education – crores of rupees, funded by taxpayer money. So, if you studied at a government medical college, remember your responsibility to serve the public. Don’t think your success solely relies on you and your parents’ hard work. Society plays a vital role through taxes.”
Several doctors echoed Alamgir’s sentiment, urging the newcomers to pay it forward by helping others pursue their medical dreams, just like Urooj helped them.
On the occasion, Urooj also honoured three of its teachers- Md Irshad, Amrendra Kumar and Nadim Haider.
Abdullah Amir of Helping Hand Trust told the medical students about the butterfly effect and that every small work matters.
Dr Jawera Mehreen reminded the students, “In Palestine, doctors are true heroes. Remember, you have to serve the humanity wherever you will be.”
These 32 young individuals, embarking on their journeys as future doctors, represent not just personal triumphs but testaments to the power of collective support and dedication. As they step into the white coats, a shared commitment to serve humanity unites them, a promise whispered in the echoes of their past struggles and fueled by the unwavering support they received.
Last year, 22 students of Urooj, most of them from humble background had cleared NEET 2022.
The names of the students have been changed on their requests.
source: http://www.enewsroom.in / eNewsRoom India / Home> Education / by Shahnawaz Akhtar / February 12th, 2024
The university observed a two-minute silence to honour Prof Neelofar Khan
File/GK
Srinagar :
The University of Kashmir (KU) mourned the demise of Prof Neelofar Khan, a distinguished scholar and former Director of the Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE) and the Directorate of Lifelong Learning (DLL) during a condolence meeting held here Wednesday.
Prof Khan also served as the Coordinator of the National Service Scheme (NSS), leaving behind a legacy of significant contributions to the university and the broader academic community, an official statement issued here said.
The Dean of Academic Affairs, Dean of Research, Dean of College Development Council, Deans of various schools, Heads of Departments (HODs), and other officers of the university administration, teachers, scholars and students attended the condolence meeting expressing their grief over the loss.
The university observed a two-minute silence to honour Prof Neelofar Khan.
“The university community, particularly the academic fraternity is deeply saddened by her passing away and expressed profound sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family,” a spokesperson said in the statement.
In her condolence message, KU Vice Chancellor Prof Nilofer Khan, conveyed her sympathies to the bereaved family on behalf of the entire university community, including teaching and non-teaching staff as well as students.
“Prof Neelofar Khan was not only a committed academic but also a visionary leader who significantly shaped the educational landscape at the University of Kashmir. Her dedication to expanding educational opportunities and fostering a culture of lifelong learning will continue to inspire us all,” the KU Vice Chancellor said.
KU Registrar Prof Nasser Iqbal also paid tributes to the departed soul.
He said, “The university has lost a remarkable scholar and an exemplary leader. Prof Khan’s contributions will remain etched in the history of our institution and her legacy will continue to guide us.”
Meanwhile, a separate condolence meeting was held at the office of the Director of the Centre for Distance and Online Education, where staff members, teachers, scholars and students gathered to honour the memory of Prof Khan.
The attendees shared fond memories of her impactful work and prayed for her soul to rest in eternal peace.
Director, CDOE, KU, Prof Showkat Ahmad Shah in his condolence message said: “Prof Khan’s tenure at the University of Kashmir was marked by dedicated service in several key roles. Her leadership at the Centre for Distance and Online Education and the Directorate of Lifelong Learning was instrumental in expanding educational access and promoting the principles of lifelong learning. Her contributions have left a lasting impression on the university and her influence will be felt for generations to come.”
“The University of Kashmir mourns the loss of a beloved educator and leader and extends its deepest condolences to Prof Neelofar Khan’s family,” he said. “Her contributions to the academic community will be remembered with enduring respect and admiration.”
source: http://www.greaterkashmir.com / Greater Kashmir / Home / by GK News Service / August 29th, 2024
Association of Muslims Professionals (AMP) will be conducting their 5th Annual National Talent Search Exam (AMP-NTS 2024), for School & College students on Saturday, 7th December 2024.
The National Talent Search Exam is organized with the intention of increasing and rewarding the students’ general awareness and competitive spirit and identifying the best and brightest students to support and nurture for the forthcoming national competitive exams.
The specially designed poster of AMP-NTS 2024 was launched at a grand function in the auditorium, Arcade Business College auditorium in Patna on October 19, where more than 200 influential people like social and community leaders, professionals, policy makers, retired bureaucrats, and others were present.
Farooq Siddiqui, Head of AMP National Coordination Team, welcomed the dignitaries, guests and students. He said that the purpose of AMP NTS is to create achievers from smaller cities and informed the audience that in NTS 2023, 90% of top rankers were from tier 2 and 3 cities. He further informed that this year, the AMP NTS 2024 intends to reach out to 1000 Blocks in all the minority-concentrated districts of India and is bound to achieve many milestones.
Dr. Syed Shah Shamimuddin Ahmad Munemi, Sr. Professor & HOD Arabic Department, Oriental College, Patna, was the guest of honour at the event. He said, “The Association of Muslim Professionals has brought about a revolution in the country in the field of education. Their commitment and focus are exemplary. They have touched innumerable underprivileged lives through their many activities and I wish them well for the 5th edition of their National Talent Search 2024 competition.”
Mohammad Ashfaq Sir, Director-Gravity Classes & Lead partner – AMP NTS, said “When AMP approached us to support them for their National Talent Search exam, we wholeheartedly agreed as we believed in their vision. We all need to create awareness regarding this talent search all over the country especially in smaller cities and towns so they can benefit, as their students’ IQ level is the same as in bigger cities, and those who start the training from 9th Standard onwards have a higher ratio of success.”
Dr. Abdul Qadeer, Director & Founder – Shaheen Education Foundation said, “AMP is known all over India for its excellent work in education and we decided to collaborate with them for the National Talent Search. This year we will be selecting students for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) as well, which is for 450 Universities, through AMP NTS 2024.”
Mohammad Reyaz Alam, AMP State Head, Bihar and the driving force for this programme hosted the event very successfully and explained to the audience the purpose of the event, which was to launch the promotion and students’ registration of AMP NTS – 2024.
The AMP NTS 2024 exam will be held for 3-Categories of students:
* Senior/Degree Colleges (Undergraduates)
* Junior Colleges (11th & 12th Std)
* Schools (8th, 9th & 10th Std)
This year 2.5 lakh-plus students from over 8,000 schools and 2,000-plus colleges from 600-plus districts across India are expected to participate. This year, this competition will be held offline in a physical mode in 1000 exam centres of over 400 districts across the country. There will also be an online version available on the AMP World mobile app for those who are unable to appear in person.
The top 500 students will be given IIT-JEE/NEET coaching scholarships worth Rs. 10 Crores ranging from 50% to 100% by AMP’s top 20 training partners. Also to encourage the students to participate in the NTS 2024, AMP is giving out cash rewards worth ₹ 5 lakhs+. Other than these, academic scholarships worth over ₹ 20 lakhs will also be given to deserving underprivileged students through IndiaZakat.com, their Zakat-based crowd-funding platform, plus a whole lot of additional support for the students.
The uniqueness of this competition is, that along with school, college, NIOS, ITI, and Diploma students; even Madrasa students between the ages of 13 to 15 years can also participate in the National Talent Search.
This examination will be conducted simultaneously across the country on December 7, 2024 from 11 am onwards. The last date for registration in this competition is November 26, 2024.
More details about the NTS 2024 exam are available at: www.ampindia.org/National_talent_search
The AMP NTS 2024 promotion launch event ended on a positive note with all present affirming that they will try to reach the maximum number of institutions and students to become exam centres and register for the exam. The local AMP Bihar team and the respective chapter executive team members all worked relentlessly for the success of the launch event.
source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> Education / by admin India Tomorrow.net / October 21st, 2024
Anjuman Taraqqi E Urdu, an NGO promoting the Urdu language in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, organised a debate competition on 20th October at the Badria College campus as part of the Badria Centenary celebrations (1924–2024). The competition featured the Badria Centenary Urdu Debate Trophy.
The event, divided into morning and evening sessions, saw a debate competition in the morning followed by a trophy award ceremony. Chief Guest P.C. Hashir, Managing Director of Peecy Group of Companies and Correspondent of Badria Institution, alongside Keynote Speaker Abid Ulla Athahar Shimogavi, a retired principal and president of the State Organization, Secretary of Urdu Taraqqi Hind and H. M. Afroz Assadi, Managing Director of Northern Insurance LLC, Dubai, who sponsored the event, were present at the event Mumtaz Hussain, an NRI entrepreneur from Qatar, chaired the proceedings.
Both sessions commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran. In his address, P.C. Hashir highlighted the role of debates and educational activities in fostering intellectual growth among students, suggesting that such competitions could help shape future lawmakers. Keynote Speaker Abid Ulla Athahar stressed the importance of primary education in one’s mother tongue, citing the example of countries like Japan, Germany, and France, which educate children in their native languages. He noted that studying in the mother tongue allows for better comprehension compared to learning in foreign languages like English.
Mumtaz Hussain, an alumnus of Badria Institution, shared the brief history of the institution, founded in 1924 by Marhoom C. Mehmud as AL MADRASATHUL BADRIA, initially offering religious education to local children in Bunder and Kudroli. The relationship between Badria and the Urdu language is profound; it was the first school to offer Urdu studies in the undivided Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts since 1947. After C. Mehmud’s passing, various presidents led the organization, with Marhoom Thumbe Ahmed Hajee serving the longest from 1975 to 2020. Hussain recounted that, in the past, students were required to speak Urdu within the institution or face punishment for using other languages.
The junior-level debate competition saw participation from seven higher primary schools in Dakshina Kannada. Mohammed Ghouse from Higher Primary School Kandatpalli won first place, with Rifa and Fathima Suzana from Government Urdu Higher Primary School, Kawalkatte (Bantwal Taluk), securing second and third places, respectively. At the senior level, five high schools from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts participated. Abdul Baari and Abdur Rahman from Thouheed English Medium High School, Gangolli, Udupi district, took first and second places, while Khadeejatul Farzana from Sayyed Madani Urdu High School, Ullal Taluk, D.K., came third.
The junior-level Badria Centenary Championship Trophy was awarded to Government Urdu Higher Primary School, Kawalkatte (Bantwal Taluk), and the senior trophy went to Thouheed English Medium High School, Gangolli, Udupi district. Twenty other participants received consolation certificates.
Five 10th standard students, Mohammed Meraj Khan, Fouzia Banu, Moulana Mohammed Uzaim, Sabiya Naaz, and Aysha Ruha were also felicitated for excelling in Urdu in the Karnataka State Board Examinations (2023–24).
The event began with a welcome address by Mohammed Hanif Master, Secretary of Anjuman. A.S. Madani, President of the organisation, outlined its objectives and future plans for promoting the Urdu language. Engineer Khaleel, Assistant Secretary, provided logistical support, and Rahmathulla, an active member of the Anjuman, gave the vote of thanks. The event was hosted by Badria alumnus and international emcee, Sahill Zahir.
On the occasion of Sir Syed Day 2024, organized by Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), the Ghalib Institute was conferred the National Sir Syed Excellence Award.
The Vice Chancellor of AMU, Professor Naeema Khatoon, presented the award, along with a memento and certificate, to the Director of the Ghalib Institute, Dr. Idrees Ahmed, in recognition of the institute’s outstanding contributions.
Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Ahmed remarked, “It is a moment of pride for me and the entire Urdu-speaking world that a respected institution, which has produced exemplary individuals serving the nation in various fields, is honoring Ghalib Institute.
“Every year, the Ghalib Institute itself acknowledges six distinguished individuals for their contributions to literature and cultural services. This is the first time we are receiving such a tribute from a prestigious institution. On behalf of myself and the institute, I sincerely thank Vice Chancellor Professor Naeema Khatoon, Director of Sir Syed Academy Professor Shafey Kidwai, the jury members, and the entire university staff. This recognition will further motivate the Ghalib Institute to continue its work.”
The ceremony celebrated the enduring legacy of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan and his contributions to education, with AMU recognizing institutions that carry forward his vision of cultural and intellectual excellence.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Awards> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / October 18th, 2024
