Two Muslim IAS officers in Telangana have been appointed in-charge Vice-Chancellors of two state universities.
Syed Ali Murtaza Rizvi has been appointed as the in-charge Vice-Chancellor of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University, Hyderabad. The government has also appointed Ahmed Nadeem as the Vice-Chancellor of Palamuru University, Mahabubnagar.
Syed Ali Murtaza Rizvi is Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of 1999 batch. He is currently serving as the Principal Secretary to Government, Energy Department. Ahmed Nadeem is the Principal Secretary to Government, Planning Department. He is an IAS officer of 1997 batch.
They are among IAS officers appointed as in-charge Vice-Chancellors of 10 state universities.
As existing Vice-Chancellors demitted their office on May 21, the bureaucrats were appointed as in-charge Vice-Chancellors.
As per the orders issued by the government, the in-charge Vice-Chancellors will hold these offices till regular vice-chancellors are appointed or till June 15, 2024, whichever is earlier.
Dana Kishore, Principal Secretary, Municipal Administration & Urban Development, has been appointed as in-charge Vice-Chancellor of Osmania University, Hyderabad, the oldest and most prestigious university in the state.
In-charge VCs have also been appointed for Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTU), Hyderabad; Kakatiya University, Warangal; Telangana University, Nizamabad; Potti Sriramulu Telugu University, Hyderabad; Mahatma Gandhi University, Nalgonda; Satavahana University, Karimnagar; and Jawaharlal Nehru Architecture and Fine Arts University, Hyderabad.
The government has already invited applications for the posts of regular VCs. A total of 1,382 applications have been received, including those from 312 teachers. Most of them applied for multiple universities.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / May 25th, 2024
Architect Imran Abbas Shaikh and some of the mosques he designed.
Architect Imran Abbas Shaikh, a visionary based in Pune, Maharashtra, exemplifies the transformative power of architecture. With a passion for blending modern design with cultural heritage, Imran has developed a diverse portfolio ranging from innovative urban projects to iconic cultural landmarks. Renowned for his distinctive approach, he has redefined architectural design, particularly in the creation of mosques. His designs for these sacred spaces often include facilities like hospitals, museums, libraries, and community kitchens, showcasing his dedication to empowering the community. Through his work, Imran Abbas Shaikh has set a new standard for integrating functionality with tradition, earning widespread acclaim for his contributions to architecture.
Muhammad Bin Abdullah Mosque’ in Dhannipur, Ayodhya district, Uttar Pradesh.
The Early Years
Mr. Mohammad Imran Abbas Shaikh, hailing from Pune, Maharashtra, has traversed an extraordinary journey from his roots to emerge as one of the most prominent architects of our time.
His architectural firm, Cubix Architects, situated in his hometown, reflects his deep-rooted connection to the place that nurtured his talents. Growing up, Imran was distinguished by his unique approach and a penchant for creative thinking, qualities that would later define his illustrious career as a visionary architect. However, it was the unwavering support and belief of his father that truly ignited Imran’s passion. His father instilled in him the notion that architecture was not merely about envisioning structures, but about crafting an unwavering future that could bring about positive change. This paternal guidance became the driving force behind Mr. Mohammad Imran Abbas Shaikh’s relentless pursuit of architectural excellence.
Islamic School and Institutional Campus, Phaltan, Maharashtra.
Educational Background
Imran Shaikh’s educational journey was marked by a pursuit of excellence from the outset. Beginning with his early schooling split between SSPM and Children’s Academy in Shivaji Nagar, Pune, he demonstrated a thirst for knowledge and innovation. His high school years at Poona College laid the groundwork for his academic prowess, setting the stage for his subsequent achievements.
Imran’s passion for architecture led him to Bharati Vidyapeeth, where he honed his skills and emerged as a consistent topper throughout his degree. Even after completing his formal education, Imran’s dedication to his field remained unwavering. He continues to share his expertise and insights by delivering lectures and guiding Ph.D. aspirants, leaving an indelible mark as an inspirational figure for aspiring architects and youngsters alike. His contributions as a guest lecturer have not only enriched the minds of his students but have also sparked a newfound enthusiasm for architecture among many.
Islamic Spiritual Centre of Maulana Sajjad Nomani – Neral, Maharashtra
Inspiration Behind Choosing Architecture as Career
Imran Shaikh always had a keen interest in travelling, exploring, and various forms of art. After high school, he decided to pursue architecture as a career, a field that had always intrigued him. Imran often spoke about how his father was his biggest motivator, playing a significant role in his journey to becoming a successful architect. During Imran’s college years, his father would proudly share his accomplishments with everyone. Imran’s fondness for art and his unique, abstract perspective on things have been evident throughout his career. Each of his projects bears a distinctive touch, showcasing his artistic vision and innovative approach.
“Modern technologies have made the youth increasingly dependent, resulting in a lack of motivation and original ideas. To foster change, it is essential to reduce dependency on readymade materials and encourage wholehearted engagement in learning, exploration, and hands-on activities. As long as a person is away from mental pollution, they can do wonders”
How Does Imran Shaikh See Architecture
Imran Shaikh states that architecture is a profession that has existed since the dawn of mankind, tracing its origins back to Adam (AS). Since the beginning, people have sought shelter, making architecture an integral part of human existence. This concept is not limited to humans; some of the best architectural forms can be seen in birds and animals. According to him, architecture starts with a dot, which evolves into a line, then a triangle, and gradually forms complex shapes and designs. The journey beginning with a simple dot encapsulates the essence of architecture.
His favourite works
The ‘Muhammad Bin Abdullah Mosque’ in Dhannipur, Ayodhya district, Uttar Pradesh, is under construction and spans 4,500 square metres.
Dar e Arqam
This mosque will include various facilities such as a hospital, community kitchen, library, and research centre.
Remarkably, it will be the first mosque in India to feature five minarets, symbolising the five pillars of Islam: profession of faith (shahada), prayer (namaz), almsgiving (zakat), fasting (roza), and pilgrimage (hajj). The mosque will be pentagon-shaped, further reflecting the significance of the five pillars. Additionally, it will boast a water and light show and house the world’s largest Quran, measuring 21 feet in height and 36 feet in width.
Architect Imran Abbas Shaikh
Some of architect Imran’s finest works include:
1-KAUSAR BAUGH MASJID – PUNE, MAHARASHTRA
2-ISLAMIC SPIRITUAL CENTRE OF MAULANA SAJJAD NOMANI – NERAL, MAHARASHTRA
3-ISLAMIC SCHOOL AND INSTITUTIONAL CAMPUS – PHALTAN, MAHARASHTRA
4-ISLAMIC SCHOOL AND INSTITUTIONAL CAMPUS – NEPAL
5-MASJID MUHAMMAD BIN ABDULLAH INDO ISLAMIC CULTURAL – BABRI MASJID, UP AYODHYA
5-ISLAMIC SCHOOL AND INSTITUTIONAL CAMPUS – BANGLADESH
Building a Better Society
Apart from his architectural achievements, Imran Shaikh is actively involved in education through his nonprofit ‘Human Embrace Foundation’, based in Pune. This foundation is dedicated to educating children from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring they have access to quality education and opportunities. Imran’s commitment to this cause has made a significant impact, inspiring many young people. His dedication and success serve as a powerful role model for youth, encouraging them to strive for excellence and make a positive difference in their communities. Through both his architectural work and his educational initiatives, Imran Shaikh exemplifies the values of innovation, compassion, and community empowerment.
source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Positive Story / by Fiza Memon / May 25th, 2024
Dr. Azra Nalatwad’s forefathers were from a tiny town named Karnul in Andhra pradesh and had migrated to Karnataka. Behind her success of becoming a doctor is an incredible story of hard work and grit that lifted a poor family of weavers to a family of doctors. Dr Azra Nalatwad shared her and her parents’ inspirational story with Awaz-the Voice.
“My parents were extremely hardworking, poor, and struggled to make ends meet, particularly my father, Abdul Khader Karnu used to manually weave traditional saris through wooden looms, as machines had not yet arrived at that time. During his early 20s, after a lot of labour, he would make one saree.”
His family was living hand-to-mouth existence. Though Abdul Khader struggled with poverty, he dreamed big – he was determined to become a doctor. Without any prodding or help, he studied by himself while weaving sarees. Back then, there was no societal help, counselors, or family push to improve his lot. With sheer grit, he started to excel in his studies. He was so brilliant that he was sponsored for his studies in a boarding school. During holidays, he would return home and help with the business of his father and brothers.
“With great tenacity, he finally finished his studies to complete his MBBS and achieved his goal of becoming a doctor, specializing as an ENT physician. He was the first in the family to be so. Our father paved the way to help us all come up as a family.”
Her mother was a schoolteacher when she married Abdul Khader, who persuaded her to complete her MBBS and she became a gynecologist.
Dr. Azra who teaches anatomy at Karnataka Medical College says, “On seeing my parent’s hard work and toil, I resolved to study hard as well. Early in my school days, I wanted to become a doctor. So, I focused on getting admission to MBBS, which I managed to get in the area without going to a hostel to my relief.” Dr. Azra says that her life was made smooth due to the hard work of her parents.
Describing the life around her, she explains, “Around my neighbourhood, most of the girls would do some BST course, and then get married, but my parents spurred me on to do something significant and not hurry to get married. My parents always had a vision that we as a family should not just study and stay at home to be engrossed and wrapped up only in our lives but use our enlightenment to serve the community.”
Dr Azra Nalatwad during her PG course
Azra’s family is a family of doctors. “My eldest sister is a dentist, her husband is a Pathologist (MD) and younger brother Dr. Adil is a neurosurgeon, his wife is a doctor with MBA and MBBS degrees.”
Interestingly, Azra’s husband is the only non-doctor in the family and it was deliberate. She explains: “When it was time for me to get married, my father told me that since there are many doctors in their family, it was better to find my prospective husband in another field. As a family, our conversations revolved around patients and their cases, so my father felt it would be better to get a non-medical groom.”
She married an engineer who working with one of India’s leading software companies.
To follow their father’s advice to his children that they must pay it back to society, Dr. Azra says, The siblings often organize free health checkup camps at Gulbarga.” (Gulbarga is now known as Kalaburagi and has developed to become a city).
She continued, “After writing my entrance test for the post-graduation, my father encouraged me to take the course wherever I get it. He taught me never to throw away opportunities. I was selected for anatomy and it took me to teaching. I did a course to learn ultrasound technology, and in the hospital where my mother was working, I was appointed as a sinologist.”
Dr. Azra Nalatwad’s father died during the COVID surge. “He continued to see patients even during the pandemic; never isolated them and eventually caught the virus and succumbed to it while during his duty in Gulbarga.”
Azra worked at different places like Kadapa in Andhra Pradesh, Ernakulam in Kerala and now she is in Bengaluru. Mother of two growing-up boys, she travels in her car from Bengaluru to Kolar daily for her anatomy teaching classes.
She explains, “I took up the teaching line in anatomy and was interested in ultrasound, so I went towards the clinical side for one and a half years, I also worked in Manipal Hospital as a senior resident doctor. Night duties in the hospital became problematic with my son as my mother-in-law was not there with me, so I quit that job and came back to teaching.”
She however loves her teaching job, “The new generation of doctors do not talk to their patients because of the long queues of people waiting to see them and they want to see as many patients as possible in a day, so impatiently, they quickly write something out for the patients and push them out to directly go for CT scans, ultrasounds without noting the signs and symptoms in the patient. There is no personal touch or caring. Once again, after their illness is diagnosed, they do not convey to the patient properly what was the problem and what steps to take, nor do they serve the patients their options. The doctors need to show them different modalities of treatment which and required them to communication properly.
“Therefore, I encourage my students to develop doctor-patient communication skills with more empathy and compassion, some emotional attachment is necessary. A patient needs to feel trust in a doctor to return to them. In the early days, a patient would only go back to their favourite doctor holding him in great esteem. These days it is sad to see patients changing the doctor midway during the treatment while complaining that the previous one was noncommittal and indifferent or even rude. These days, most of the doctors are cold and detached.
Dr Azra Nalatwad at the hospital (wearing a black Abayya)
She says her students are becoming aware of the bad doctor-patient cases as newspapers report about incidents of people assaulting doctors. “We guide them so that they will not learn through bitter experience but rather as we say, prevention is better than cure, so we teach them that when they are checking female patients, they need to take their consent and explain why they need to touch her body.”
I tell students, “You suddenly cannot ask her to lift her clothes without her consent, even if one is checking the wrist, the patient needs to be informed what the doctor is doing.” Thus, we teach our students to inform the patient before doing even a tiny procedure or even checking the pulse or temperature as a form of respect between the doctor and the patient and leave the lines open for good communication. Just directly touching the patient does not work nowadays. Teaching is a great responsibility where one does not just teach and go but has to inculcate empathy, sensitivity, communication skills, and other qualities in our students.”
Brightening up, she said, “One thing I am looking forward to is I am going to open my clinic very soon working as a family physician, serving my residents, and treating small illnesses, which do not require complicated procedures.”
She continued, “Why I want to start my clinic in Bengaluru is to ease the burden of the poor in a modest area. Nowadays, for simple sicknesses, people are going to big hospitals and get embroiled in unnecessary expenses and procedures. The OPD fees will be more than Rs. 500 or Rs. 750, an outrageous amount not required for small illnesses which is ripping the pockets of the poor. Things like a common upper respiratory tract infection, ear pain, or other little illnesses do not need an OPD visit but rather a small affordable clinic with a small fee such as Rs. 50 or Rs. 100 to make it very light and easy for them.”
She explained, “In big health centers, there is a lot of corruption going on where they hoodwink patients into paying large amounts of money for unnecessary tests, procedures, and treatment. I feel if I can help the poor in a smaller way such as this evading all the bribing that happens in big clinics and enabling health care at their doorsteps, figuratively. I want to ensure that they get immediate help and cure for their illness without running to mega hospitals to give large amounts of money which they cannot afford, to get treated.”
To pay tribute to the man who worked hard and changed his destiny, Dr Azra says she would name her hospital after her father. That she says would take a little time. Right now, besides taking care of her parents-in-law and husband, she has to look after her 12-year-old son and four-and-a-half-year-old daughter.
Rita Farhat Mukand is an independent writer
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Rita Farhat Mukund / May 14th, 2024
Prof. Nafees Ahmad Khan, a distinguished scholar in the Department of Botany at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), has been recognized as the top researcher at AMU, 9th in India, and 577th globally by Research.com, a leading academic platform for researchers. This recognition comes from the 2024 edition of the rankings for the best scientists in Plant Science and Agronomy.
Prof. Khan’s groundbreaking research focuses on the mechanisms of plant hormonal and nutritional regulation to optimize photosynthetic machinery using ionomics and metabolomics for sustainable development. His work aims to mitigate the adverse effects of abiotic stress factors such as salinity, heavy metals, and temperature variations by enhancing nutrient-use efficiency through the synergistic action of signaling molecules like ethylene, nitric oxide, abscisic acid, and hydrogen sulfide. These advancements promise to create abiotic stress-resilient plants, significantly improving food security in India.
Expressing his gratitude, Prof. Khan told Radiance, “I feel highly elated and delighted to receive such recognition for the second consecutive year. I am thankful to Almighty Allah for blessing me with much more than I deserve and for the responsibility that I have been able to fulfill successfully. Congratulations to all the research students of the lab, collaborators, and well-wishers for believing in me.”
With around 200 research papers and 22 edited books to his name, Prof. Khan has received numerous accolades, including the UGC-Research Award, Fellowships from the National Academy of Sciences, the Linnean Society of London, the Indian Botanical Society, and the Indian Society of Plant Physiology. He has been recognized as a Highly Cited Researcher from 2019 to 2023 and received the India Research Excellence Citation Award-2023 by Clarivate Analytics (Web of Science), along with the Plant Science and Agronomy in India Award for 2023 and 2024 by Research.com.
Prof. Khan’s research outcomes not only highlight his contributions to the scientific community but also present viable solutions for creating resilient agricultural practices to ensure food security in the country.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus / by Radiance News Bureau / May 16th, 2024
Prof Asad U Khan, from the Interdisciplinary Biotechnology Unit at Aligarh Muslim University, has achieved a significant milestone in the realm of Microbiology, securing the 39th position globally, according to ScholarGPS, the world’s foremost scholarly analytics platform. This platform utilizes advanced computational techniques such as data mining, artificial intelligence, and statistical analysis to evaluate scholarly impact comprehensively.
Named as an “Inaugural Highly Ranked Scholar,” Prof Khan joins an elite group of scholars, with only three Indian researchers ranking in the top 0.05% globally in Microbiology. His recognition among 67 scholars worldwide underscores his exceptional contributions to the field.
Expressing his elation, Prof Khan shared, “I was truly thrilled to discover my global standing. Being passionate about research and dedicating two decades to antimicrobial studies, this recognition surpasses my expectations.” He expressed gratitude to his family, mentors, and supporters for their encouragement throughout his journey.
Highly Ranked Scholars like Prof Khan are distinguished by both productivity (number of publications) and impact (citations), as well as the quality of their work (h-index). ScholarGPS’s extensive database, comprising over 30 million scholar profiles and 200 million scholarly publications, enables precise identification of scholars within specific specialties, disciplines, and fields.
Prof Khan’s accolades extend beyond this recent recognition, with previous honors from national and international scientific bodies, including the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, acknowledging his outstanding contributions to combating Antimicrobial Resistance.
In summary, Prof Asad U Khan’s global ranking in Microbiology signifies not only his individual achievement but also highlights the excellence of research conducted at Aligarh Muslim University, reaffirming India’s presence on the global scientific stage.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / May 09th, 2024
A joint study conducted by a Delhi-based think tank – Centre for Study and Research (CSR) and NOUS Network Private Limited – has busted the myth that Muslim-run institutions cater to Muslims only.
The study titled “A Survey of Muslim-managed Public and Private Institutions of Higher Education in India” reveals that Hindu students outnumber Muslim students in higher education in Muslim-managed institutions across the country.
The percentage of Hindus, according to the report, is about 55 percent in these institutions against 42 percent of Muslim students.
However, the report is silent about the reasons behind Hindu students exceeding their Muslim counterparts in Muslim-run institutions.
But the higher number of Hindu students is an indicator that the Muslim institutions do not discriminate against non-Muslims and are open to all religious communities against the prevailing misconception that Muslim institutions serve only Muslim students.
This is also a proof that the standard of education in Muslim-run institutions are at par with institutions run by other communities. Had the quality of education in Muslim institutions been poor, Hindu students would certainly have avoided it and not enrolled en mass as is happening currently.
The study provides empirical evidence against the prevailing false notion among certain sections of society regarding Muslim-managed educational institutions.
The report reveals a surprising trend: in Muslim-run universities, Hindus constitute the majority of students (52.7%), while Muslims make up 42.1%. This pattern holds true for colleges managed by the Muslim minority as well, where Hindus are the largest student group (55.1%), followed by Muslims (42.1%) and other minority groups (2.8%).
The findings of the report were discussed at a roundtable event attended by educators, policymakers and stakeholders. They applauded the report as a valuable resource for addressing existing challenges faced by the Muslim community in the realm of higher education.
Concerns were also expressed over the grim situation of the community, particularly their meagre share in higher education and their sharp dropout rates.
CSR director Dr. Mohammed Rizwan presented the vision of CSR, which aims to evolve a purposeful, holistic, and value-based knowledge ecosystem. He asserted that the report is a “myth-buster” that provides empirical evidence against the prevailing misinformation among certain sections of society.
“To our knowledge, no such study has been conducted to date, and there is currently no data available on the number of institutions for higher education affiliated with the Muslim minority group, while this research represents the first attempt of its kind to address this critical gap,” Dr. Rizwan stated.
Elaborating that despite consistent efforts from the community, empirical evidence suggests a need for even more concrete efforts, Dr. Rizwan said that those efforts should particularly focus on areas like gross enrolment in higher education, decreasing the dropout rate, and other aspects of higher education.
Dr. Rizwan believes that this report sheds light on the challenges and opportunities within higher education by meticulously analyzing various facets. These facets include the number and types of educational institutions, the gender ratio within them, their affiliation status, their academic productivity, their NAAC accreditation standing, student demographics, and more.
“The report’s findings underscore the importance of recognizing the unique needs of the Muslim minority in higher education and advocating for targeted interventions to address those needs,” he added.
Speaking at the roundtable, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) Vice President Prof. Salim Engineer commended the CSR and NOUS team for conducting such an important study. However, he cautioned that the findings regarding the community’s education situation are not encouraging.
Prof. Salim highlighted that the study serves as a roadmap for improvement, identifying areas where the community needs to focus its efforts while acknowledging its achievements.
Emphasizing the need to encourage the community, not discourage it, by recognizing its accomplishments and contributions in the past 75 years of independence, he pointed out the community’s resilience in the face of continued communal riots and a challenging post-partition atmosphere.
Criticizing the apathy of successive governments towards the Muslim minority, Prof. Salim lamented that numerous studies, including the noteworthy Sachar Committee report, have been conducted on the community’s socio-economic and educational status. However, these reports have been largely debated without any significant implementation of their recommendations.
Acknowledging the community’s progress in education despite these hurdles and the negative attitudes of some governments, the JIH leader commended, the establishment of numerous educational institutions and the achievements of students in higher education and civil services.
Stressing that the country’s progress hinges on the advancement of the Muslim minority, Prof. Salim urged the community to avoid self-blame and instead celebrate its achievements in the face of adversity. He concluded by referencing the Quran, stating that the Muslim community is meant to serve others.
Ali Javed, CEO of NOUS Network Pvt. Ltd., a Delhi-based think tank and media house, asserted that this report stands out as a truly unique attempt, as there is currently no existing comprehensive overview providing insights into the status of higher education in institutions catering to Muslims.
Ali Javed expressed the hope that this report would be an indispensable resource for academics, policymakers, and anyone interested in educational advancement. He believed it would significantly contribute to our understanding of Muslim-affiliated higher education institutions, paving the way for further discussions and initiatives in this area.
Emphasizing the importance of collective action, NOUS CEO explained that the purpose of convening this roundtable of experts, educators, academics, and stakeholders is to collaborate and find solutions to the community’s problems. He stressed that joint efforts are necessary for progress.
Expressing concern about the “extreme deprivation” faced by the community, not just in education but across various indicators, Javed proposed a multi-pronged approach, including data collection through surveys in Muslim-dominated areas, gathering disaggregated data, and developing the community’s own policy documents for negotiation with policymakers. He also emphasized the need for an evidence-based strategy for societal reform and infrastructure development.
Highlighting the study’s findings, researcher Abid Faheem, who played a key role in compiling the data, pointed out that Muslims constitute over 14% of India’s population. However, their representation in higher education remains low. According to the latest All India Survey of Higher Education (AISHE-2021-22), only 4.8% of students enrolled in higher education are Muslims. This is even lower than the enrolment rates for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), which stand at 15.3% and 6.3% respectively. SCs and STs comprise 16.6% and 8.6% of the total population, respectively.
Faheem used a PPT to show that the gross enrolment ratio for Muslim students in colleges affiliated with Muslim institutions is 1.23. This ratio is significantly lower in universities, at just 0.23. The combined gross enrolment ratio for Muslim students is 1.46. However, the situation is even worse in institutions of national importance like IITs, IIITs, IISERs, NITs, and IIMs, where only 1.72% of students are Muslim.
Faheem expressed concern that despite the Sachar Committee report on the socio-economic and educational status of the Muslim community released 17 years ago, there has not been much progress. He noted that in 2006, when the Sachar report was published, Muslim enrolment in higher education was 3.6%. While efforts have been made to improve this ratio, the first AISHE report in 2012-13 showed only a 0.6% increase after six years. A decade later, the AISHE report indicated another modest increase of 0.6%. In contrast, other disadvantaged groups like SCs and STs have made significant progress. Their enrolment rates have risen from 2.4% in 2006 to 15.3% and 6.3% in 2021-22, respectively.
However, the enrolment rates for SCs and STs have shown a much sharper rise compared to Muslims. Their share in higher education has climbed from a combined 2.4% in 2006 to 15.3% for SCs and 6.3% for STs in 2021-22.
It’s important to note that the Sachar report initially reported a combined enrolment rate of 2.4% for SCs and STs.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Sanghmitra, Chairperson of the Centre for Social Medicine and Community Health at Jawaharlal Nehru University, appreciated the CSR and Nous Networks team. She also appreciated their work in clarifying some widely held misconceptions about the Muslim community.
Prof. Sanghmitra emphasized the importance of inclusivity in policymaking. However, she expressed concern about the gap between policy and reality. She pointed out that the Sachar Committee report had already documented the disadvantaged state of Muslims and provided evidence. She further noted that the Amitabh Kundu Committee report, which followed the Sachar Committee report and received less attention, showed minimal progress in the community’s status despite the evidence and recommendations presented earlier.
Prof. Sanghmitra also recommended collecting data on the Muslim community at the secondary level in addition to the primary level.
Dr. Kamal Farooqi, spokesperson for the AIMPLB and former chairman of the Delhi Minority Commission, emphasized the importance of shifting the Muslim community’s fundamental attitude and mindset towards education.
Prof. Sadia Halima, an economics professor at Jamia Millia Islamia University, asserted for a shift in focus from mere literacy rates, ratio, enrolment figures and the number of students or institutions to prioritizing knowledge and quality education.
Prof. Majid Jameel, an electrical engineering professor at Jamia Millia Islamia University, commended the CSR-NOUS Network for the study. He shared his experiences motivating students in his hometown Saharanpur, UP, to pursue higher education, while also expressing concern about the high dropout rate within the community.
Former civil servant Akhtar Mahboob Syed stressed the importance of data collection and studies to understand the socio-economic state of the Muslim community. He pointed out that while the Sachar Committee report receives much attention, the Amitabh Kundu Committee report and Professor Mattu reports are less discussed.
Having worked with various government departments, he questioned the impact of existing schemes aimed at improving education for minorities, such as pre and post matric scholarships and the Maulana Azad Foundation and Ministry of Minority affairs. He argued that the community itself needs to gather data on the effectiveness of these initiatives, as the government is unlikely to do so. In addition to data collection, he suggested addressing the “fear complex” within the community.
Mr. Nizamuddin Shaikh of the Institute of Objective Studies and the All India Milli Council highlighted three key points: Islamization of knowledge, changing the community’s attitude towards education, and establishing more educational institutions.
The Millat Time editor Shams Tabrez Qasmi also spoke on the occasion. In the open session, various noted participants expressed their views on the study.
The report illuminates the number and growth trajectory of Muslim-affiliated institutions, along with their demographic characteristics. It underscores the pressing need for policymakers to address the under-representation of Muslims in higher education. The report also provides valuable insights into the educational quality, programme offerings, and research output of these institutions.
Other Key Results of the Study:
Universities:
Out of the total 1113 universities in India as per AISHE 2020-21 data, 23 universities belong to Muslim Minority. The share of Muslim managed universities is just 2.1%.
2. Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of universities, followed by Karnataka.
3. Of the 23 Muslim universities, the majority (43.5%) are privately managed, followed by public state universities (26.1%), deemed private universities (13%), and central universities (13%).
4. Around 69.9% of Muslim universities are located in urban areas.
5. Out of the total 97,928 students enrolled in the academic year 2021-22, 42.1% are Muslims, 52.7% are Hindus, and 5.2% belong to Other Minority groups.
6. Regarding Muslim students, there were 26,039 (63.09%) male students and 15,236 (36.91%) female students enrolled in Higher Education.
7. Among the 41,275 Muslim students enrolled, less than 1% represent Scheduled
8. Tribes, 34% were belong to Other Backward Classes, 42.8% were from the Unreserved Category, and the remaining 16.4% are from the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).
COLLEGES:
1. Out of the total 43,796 colleges in India as per AISHE 2020-21 data, 1,155 colleges are managed by Muslim minority community. It means that the share of Muslim managed colleges is just 2.6%.
2. Of these 1,155 colleges, 141 (12.2%) are technical colleges registered with the All India Council for Technical Education.
3. Despite making up 73.4% of all minority groups, Muslim minority communities only have a 16.6% share in technical colleges. In contrast, other minority groups, comprising 26.6% of the population, hold an 83.4% share in technical colleges.
4. 6.4% of Muslim colleges in India are exclusively for girls.
5. The top 10 states in terms of the number of colleges in India are Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, and Jammu & Kashmir. These states account for 90.47% of the total colleges in the country.
6. Of the 1,155 Muslim minority colleges, 85.5% are private (unaided), 10.6% are private (aided), and 3.9% are government colleges.
7. Kerala has 24.9 colleges per lakh population while UP has 4.9 colleges and West Bengal has a mere 1.8 colleges per lakh population. The national average of colleges per lakh population stands at 6.4%.
8. Of the 1155 Muslim minority colleges, 85.5% are private (unaided), 10.6% are private (aided), and 3.9% are government colleges.
9. About 57.8% of Muslim minority colleges are located in rural areas.
10. The majority of colleges (93.16%) offer Undergraduate level programs, while only 6.32% offer PhD level programs.
11. Kerala has the highest number of colleges offering PhD programs, followed by Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra.
12. Around 51% of colleges only provide undergraduate level programmes.
13. Out of the total 524,441 students enrolled in the academic year 2021-22, 42.1% are Muslims, 55.1% are Hindus, and 2.8% belong to Other Minority groups.
14. In terms of Muslim students, there were 104,163 (47.18%) male students and 116,622 (52.82%) female students enrolled in Higher Education.
15. Among the 220,785 Muslim students enrolled, less than 1% represent Scheduled Tribes, 48.1% belong to Other Backward Classes, 50.7%
16. come from the Unreserved Category, and the remaining 0.9% are from the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).
17. 96.4% of colleges did not participate in the NIRF ranking of 2023.
18. None of the colleges secured a position in the top 100 in the NIRF 2023 college rankings.
source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> Education / by Anwarulhaq Baig / May 15th, 2024
The 2023-24 ESL results have been unveiled, showcasing Fatima Samiha’s remarkable achievement. Hailing from Chikkamagalur district, Fatima, a student of Sri Sadguru Vidyamandir in Basarikatte, chose Sanskrit as her primary language and achieved a perfect score of 125 out of 125 marks in the subject.
Her exceptional performance extends across other subjects as well, with scores of 99 in Kannada, 94 in English, 83 in Mathematics, 69 in Science, and 100 in Social Science, resulting in an impressive overall score of 590 out of 625 marks, equivalent to 94.4%.
Fatima is the daughter of Muhammad Rafiq from Chikkamagaluru and Selikhat Begum from Panemangalore.
source: http://www.thehindustangazette.com / The Hindustan Gazette / Home> News> Latest News / by The Hindustan Gazette / May 12th, 2024
Dr. Ayesha Sultana stands as a beacon of innovation in the realm of Islamic education, particularly for youth and women, through her pioneering online initiatives. Armed with a profound grasp of both Islamic studies and psychology, Dr. Sultana is on a steadfast mission to imbue moral values and Islamic teachings in the hearts of the youth, with a special focus on empowering women, through accessible and dynamic courses.
Her latest endeavor, the “Taalimul Islam Certificate Course,” stands as a testament to her unwavering dedication to delivering high-quality education. Tailored for children up to 14 years old, this comprehensive 10-week online program provides an interactive platform to acquire fundamental Islamic knowledge. Transitioning seamlessly from physical to online classes, Dr. Sultana, former assistant secretary of the Women’s Wing of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Telangana, has impacted over 1500 women during the pandemic.
Under the esteemed banner of Al Huda, Dr. Sultana established the Ayat Al-Fariya Islamic Academy, a sanctuary of knowledge catering to women and children alike. Here, hundreds of women benefit from Quranic teachings and personality development courses, while children engage in interactive sessions on Quranic memorization and Islamic principles.
In her pursuit of holistic development, Dr. Sultana organizes summer short courses for children, blending physical activities with essential Islamic values. Moreover, she offers initiatives such as the “Fahm e Quran” course and “Talaash e Qadr” series for women, enriching their Ramadan experience.
Dr. Sultana’s commitment to empowering youth extends to organizing online competitions for children, where participants are recognized and awarded certificates and trophies for their accomplishments in various categories, including video competitions, speech contests, and oral exams. With 300 children joining the course and 100 already certified, the impact of her initiatives is palpable.
The journey of Al Huda Islamic School began in 2013 in Khammam, Telangana, under Dr. Sultana’s guidance. Initially offering offline classes for women, complete with free transportation facilities, the school provided courses such as Certificate in Islamic Studies, Diploma and Memorization of Quran, Basic Arabic Grammar, Tafseer, Seerah, and Personality Development until 2018. Hundreds of women benefited from these courses, with many now actively involved with Jamaat-e-Islami Hind as volunteers and members.
Dr. Sultana’s dedication to education led her to conduct motivational lectures in numerous colleges, including medical and engineering institutions, and to organize moral classes for school children. Despite her busy schedule as the assistant secretary and Dawah secretary of Telangana, she spearheaded various women empowerment programs throughout the region. With the onset of the pandemic in 2019, she seamlessly transitioned to online classes, offering a plethora of courses and short programs for women, including Akse Furqan, Dawah classes, Qasal ul Ambiya course, Qurb e Ilaahi, and numerous quiz and exam series, engaging over 1500 women.
In 2023, Dr. Sultana expanded her online educational initiatives with the establishment of Ayat Al Fariya Online Academy under the auspices of Al Huda Islamic School. Introducing short courses for women, such as Tafseer and Memorization of Surah Mulk, Surah Rahman, and Surah Yaseen, the academy continued to positively impact hundreds of women. Additionally, pre-Ramadan courses like Shahru Ramadan, along with courses during Ramadan such as Fahm e Quran and Talaash e Qadr series, were conducted, benefitting a vast number of participants.
Despite her demanding schedule, Dr. Sultana remains resolute in her commitment to providing education free of charge.
Her recent accolades, including the Rastra Ratna Puraskar Award from the Veniyl Foundation, attest to her dedication to nurturing young minds. Additionally, she has been recognized with the Best Educator and Academician Award from the Book of Excellence and the Worthy Well Foundation, earning her a place in the prestigious Book of World Records.
Beyond her educational initiatives, Dr. Sultana is also an accomplished author, with titles such as “Beyond Ramadan” and “Embodied Wisdom” under her belt. As the Assistant Editor of Radiance News Portal and a member of the Aware Trust at Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Markaz, she continues to inspire and empower individuals through her tireless efforts in education and community development.
In line with her commitment to continuous improvement and advancement, Dr. Sultana announces the upcoming launch of the Taalimul Islam Level 2 advanced course for children from May 16th to May 31st. This 15-day program will further enrich the educational journey of young learners under her guidance.
Dr. Ayesha Sultana’s tireless dedication to Islamic education and community development continues to leave an indelible mark, inspiring countless individuals to pursue knowledge and virtue.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Features> Pride of the Nation> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / May 11th, 2024
Oomerabad Village (Tirupathur District, Ambur Taluk), TAMIL NADU :
Renowned Islamic scholar and Chancellor of Jamia Darussalam Oomerabad, Maulana Kaka Sayeed Ahmed Oomeri, has passed away on Saturday, May 11, 2024, in Oomerabad, Tamil Nadu. He also held the esteemed position of Vice President of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB).
Maulana Kaka Sayeed Ahmed Oomeri hailed from the distinguished Kaka family of Oomerabad, renowned for their enduring contributions to education and philanthropy. The family’s legacy dates back to his great-grandfather, the esteemed philanthropist and hides and skins merchant, Kaka Mohammad Oomer Sahib. In 1924, Kaka Mohammad Oomer Sahib founded Jamia Darussalam College, a testament to his commitment to education. The college’s location, Oomerabad, was named in honor of his invaluable contributions.
Jamia Darussalam, now a part of a broader educational society, remains a beacon of education and service. It encompasses a Tamil medium primary school, an Urdu medium primary school, a technical institute focusing on computer education, and Jamia Hospital, a comprehensive healthcare facility catering to the community’s healthcare needs.
The passing of Maulana Kaka Sayeed Ahmed Oomeri leaves a profound void in the scholarly and educational spheres. However, his enduring contributions and teachings will continue to inspire generations to come. The entire community extends heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and associates during this period of mourning.
source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Obituary / by Muslim Mirror Desk / May 11th, 2024
Mohd Akeel, a 22-year-old Aeronautical engineer hailing from Ladakh has become the first person from the frontier region to be selected as the Air Safety Officer in the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Akeel cleared the Union Public Services Commission’s national examination held for selecting Air safety officers for 2023.
People are congratulating Akeel on social media, praising his achievement at such a young age, and calling it a breaking the barriers phenomenon.
Akeel is one of the youngest people to clear this coveted examination.
He belongs to the village Sankoo Thangdumbdur, located about 42 km from Kargil town in the Union territory of Ladakh.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Aasha Khosa, ATV / May 08th, 2024
