Tag Archives: Karnataka Muslims

Dr. Mustafa Basthikodi appointed to VTU Academic Senate

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Image credit: SCEM website

Mangaluru:

Dr. Mustafa Basthikodi, Professor and Head of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at Sahyadri College of Engineering & Management (SCEM), Mangaluru, has been appointed as a Member of the 9th Academic Senate of Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU), Belagavi.

The appointment was officially notified through the Karnataka Governor’s Secretariat Notification (No. GS 06 TUM 2025) dated June 25, 2025, under Section 22 of the VTU Act, 1994. The announcement was made by the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of VTU.

The Academic Senate is the highest academic body of the university and plays a key role in shaping academic policies and strategies. Dr. Basthikodi’s appointment is considered a recognition of his work in the field of technical education and research.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / June 26th, 2025

Poland university honours Thumbay founder

Mangalore, KARNATAKA / Ajman, Dubai, U.A.E :

Dr Thumbay Moideen was honoured for transforming the Thumbay Group into a global model of purpose-driven entrepreneurship in healthcare, education & Research.

In a moment of immense pride and global recognition, Dr. Thumbay Moideen, Founder and President of Thumbay Group, has been conferred his Fifth Honorary Doctorate, this time by the prestigious University of Lublin, Poland.

This accolade reaffirms his unmatched contributions to global healthcare, medical education, and Research for the community development.

The honorary doctorate was awarded in recognition of Dr. Moideen’s extraordinary leadership in establishing the First Private Academic Health Sytem and the region’s largest private medical university — and for transforming Thumbay Group into a global model of purpose-driven entrepreneurship in healthcare, education & Research.

Under his visionary leadership, Thumbay Group has impacted millions across more than 175 nationalities, offering compassionate care, research excellence, and world-class medical training.

The University of Lublin acknowledged Dr. Moideen’s pioneering efforts in integrating innovation with empathy, notably through the Thumbay International Research Grant (TIRG) — an initiative investing AED 3 million annually in areas like cancer immunology, AI in healthcare,precision medicine and many more Area’s of Research.

From a young entrepreneur in Karnataka to being celebrated as the most respected Indian Muslim and leading Beary in the world, Dr. Thumbay Moideen’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when faith meets action. Recognized as the leading NRI from Karnataka in the Gulf region, he is admired not just for his accomplishments, but for the values that drive them.

Once someone who measured success through projects and milestones, he has evolved into a changemaker who defines impact by how many lives his work touches.

With this latest recognition, Dr. Moideen joins an elite group of globally honoured visionaries who have reshaped industries while staying rooted in service, humility, and impact.

This doctorate reflects not only his entrepreneurial brilliance but also his enduring belief that health and education are fundamental rights, not privileges.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Moideen said: “If our work has empowered others to dream, to heal, to grow, then I consider it a success. It’s no longer about how far I’ve gone, but how many I’ve taken along. I want Thumbay Group to be remembered as a force that empowered the underprivileged, raised the standards of education, healthcare & Research.”

The vision of Thumbay Group is to deliver excellence by building a seamless ecosystem of education, healthcare, and innovation. From its flagship Gulf Medical University to hospitals, labs, rehabilitation centers, and AI-driven research programs, the Group continues its mission of shaping the future of healthcare —the Group plans to Double its Healthcare capacity and expand its all business to grow 5 fold and have a global presence.

source: http://www.gulftoday.ae / Gulf Today / Home> News / by Gulf Today, Staff Reporter / June 18th, 2025

Uppinangady student selected for international science fair in Japan

Uppinangady (Puttur Taluk, Dakshina Kannada District), KARNATAKA :

Uppinangady: 

Abdul Basith, a student from the Government Model Higher Primary School in Uppinangady, has been selected to represent India at an international science fair to be held in Japan.

Basith had earlier participated in the prestigious INSPIRE Awards MANAK competition, organised by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. He showcased his science model during the national-level exhibition held at the IIT campus in Delhi. Following this, he has now been chosen for the international-level “Sakura Science Fair” in Japan, providing him with a rare opportunity to present his innovation on a global platform.

The model developed by Basith is aimed at helping individuals with special needs, particularly those who have lost their hands. His innovation has been widely appreciated for its social relevance and practical utility.

Abdul Basith is the son of Ilyas Pasha, a resident of Kadavinabagilu. He is a Class 10 student of Tanveerul Islam Madrasa located at the Malik Dinar Juma Masjid and also serves as the General Secretary of SKSBV Tanveerul Islam Madrasa.

In recognition of his achievement, SKSBV Tanveerul Islam Madrasa, Uppinangady felicitated him at a special event.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / June 12th, 2025

Alumni of a government school in Kodagu reunite to renovate the age-old institution

Suntikoppa (Kodagu District), KARNATAKA :

Funds adding to over Rs 10 lakh are being collected to enable the renovation and revival process of the school building.

The institution did not even record a centenary celebration due to financial issues. However, the alumni of the institution became active recently and are now involved in the revival process of the institution.

Madikeri :

As several government schools are struggling to see the light of the day due to non-maintenance, an alumni association of a government school in Kodagu is striving towards renovating the institution.

Funds adding to over Rs 10 lakh are being collected to enable the renovation and revival process of the school building.

The Suntikoppa Government Primary School, established 108 years ago, has educated lakhs of students. The institution was expanded with high school education 44 years ago. However, the lack of funds for development works had remained a challenge.

The institution did not even record a centenary celebration due to financial issues. However, the alumni of the institution became active recently and are now involved in the revival process of the institution.

Recently, a group of alumni organised a reunion event as a Guru Vandhana programme, which witnessed participation from the former teaching staff.

The Alumni Association was launched as plans took shape to renovate the school building, which is in a vulnerable condition.

Funds adding up to Rs 10 lakh were collected by the alumni association. The school classrooms are being renovated and upgraded even as the alumni will initiate plans to increase admissions to the institution.

Key alumni members KH Sharif, Harish, Anil Kumar, C Mahendra, Razak, Abdul Aziz, Arun Kumar, Dhanu Kaverappa, Vincent, Shashikumar, and Kamalahasan, alongside local donors from Suntikoppa and neighbouring areas, have committed themselves to elevating the school’s standards to match private institutions.

The alumni association has members from all walks of life, some who have reached reputable posts following their primary education at the institution. “We cannot be more grateful to the alumni for taking up the renovation project,” shared Geetha, headmistress of the government school.

“This renovation represents our modest contribution to the institution that shaped our lives. Some of our alumni have become High Court judges, and under their guidance, along with support from other alumni, we are undertaking this renovation. We are ensuring minimal disruption to current students’ education,” shared RH Sharif, the VP of the alumni association.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / June 04th, 2025

Anjum Parwez appointed CM’s new ACS as L K Atheeq steps down

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

L K Atheeq (left) and Anjum Parwez

Bengaluru : 

L K Atheeq, a trusted aide of chief minister Siddaramaiah and a 1991-batch IAS officer, has resigned from his post as Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) to the chief minister. He was serving on a contract basis after his superannuation on January 31.

Anjum Parwez, a 1994-batch IAS officer and currently the ACS in the rural development and panchayat raj department, has been appointed as his successor in the chief minister’s office.

Atheeq will continue as chairperson of Bengaluru Business Corridor Ltd, the special purpose vehicle for the Peripheral Ring Road project. Sources indicate he stepped down to spend time with family and pursue personal interests, including motorcycling and poetry. 

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / Daijiworld.com / Home> Top Stories> Karnataka / by Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru / June 05th, 2025

Ibrahim Saeed: A Life of Grace, Conviction, and Connection

Mangaluru / Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

Ibrahim Saeed

When Ibrahim Saeed breathed his last in the quiet hours between May 26 and 27, 2007, it was not merely the passing of a leader – it was the end of an era. For the people of Karnataka, particularly those in the fold of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH), his death marked the departure of a towering moral force, a bridge-builder, and a man whose words carried the weight of wisdom and the warmth of sincerity.

Ibrahim Saeed(L) with Maulana Sirajul Hasan, then Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami Hind

As a former President of JIH Karnataka, Ibrahim Saeed was not just a man of designation – he was a man of deep dedication. He led with humility, served with sincerity, and above all, connected with people at the human level. His leadership was rooted not in authority, but in affection.

A Childhood of Values, A Youth of Vision
Born in coastal Karnataka, Ibrahim Saeed grew up in an environment where religious grounding and intellectual openness walked hand in hand. From an early age, he was drawn to the Qur’an, not merely as scripture to be recited, but as a message to be understood and shared. This foundational attitude remained the hallmark of his life-long da’wah journey.

His eloquence in Kannada and Urdu, coupled with a rare sensitivity to social realities, made him a powerful communicator. He spoke not to impress, but to illuminate. For young Muslims and for non-Muslim listeners alike, he offered Islam not as an ideology to be defended, but as a path of truth, mercy, and justice.

A Da’ee Who Belonged to All
Perhaps the most defining feature of Ibrahim Saeed’s personality was his deep affection for all people, regardless of faith or background. His relationship with non-Muslim brothers and sisters was truly extraordinary. Whether it was participating in interfaith programmes, comforting victims of injustice, or simply walking the narrow streets of Mangalore or Udupi, greeting people with a smile – he was universally loved and respected.

He was never one to see da’wah as monologue. To him, it was dialogue – rooted in respect, empathy, and sincerity. His tone was always soft, yet his message never diluted. Non-Muslim intellectuals and activists often remarked on how deeply they admired his character, and how Islam seemed more beautiful when explained by Ibrahim Saeed.

His inclusive vision of Islam was most evident in the way he reached out to Dalit communities across Karnataka. He would often visit Dalit colonies, organising interactions with men and women in their own neighbourhoods. On one such occasion, a woman asked him plainly, “You are a Muslim. Why do you come to our colony and conduct programmes?” He replied with characteristic humility, “Dalits are the most marginalised communities in India, and Islam teaches that every human being is equal. I want to convey that you and I are the same – no discrimination, no untouchability.”

This brief yet profound exchange summed up the essence of his mission: to live and preach the Qur’anic message of human dignity, social justice, and equality.

Leading Without Holding On
During his tenure as President of JIH Karnataka, Ibrahim Saeed steered the organisation with clarity of purpose and a focus on grassroots empowerment. He built bridges across regions, across communities, and across hearts. His vision was long-term: develop not only structures but people – individuals with integrity, faith, and commitment to social transformation.

What set him apart was his ability to let go. Even as his health declined due to terminal cancer, he made it a point to travel to Bangalore to formally hand over his responsibilities to his successor. It was a gesture that reflected his humility and organisational discipline. He believed in nazam or system, not in personality cults.

Courage in the Shadow of Death
When the diagnosis of Stage IV lung cancer came, he did not flinch. His calm reply – “Alhamdulillah” – shocked even the doctors. He rejected aggressive treatments, choosing instead to accept Allah’s decree and live his remaining days with dignity and devotion.

Despite his declining health, he continued to write, meet people, and offer guidance. He even addressed national-level meetings, delivered Qur’anic lectures in towns like Uppinangady, and met with activists who sought his counsel. His final I’tikaf – spent in the Kutchi Memon Masjid – fulfilled a long-held yearning and marked a full spiritual circle.

His close friends recall that even in moments of physical weakness, his humour remained intact. His conversations were never heavy with sorrow. They were light with grace.

A Funeral Like No Other
When the end came, the grief was personal and collective. People poured in from every district of Karnataka. The Janazah at Central Juma Masjid in Mangalore drew an unprecedented crowd – cutting across class, creed, and political affiliations. Senior leaders like H.D. Kumaraswamy, Mallikarjun Kharge, Jaffer Sharif, and Roshan Baig came to pay their respects. Rahman Khan embraced his son and said what many felt in their hearts: “We’ve lost a rare gem.”

A Legacy of Light
Today, Ibrahim Saeed lives on – not only through his family and writings, but through the countless people he inspired. He lives in the students who remember his compassionate words. He lives in the non-Muslim neighbours who saw Islam’s beauty through his actions. He lives in the members of JIH Karnataka who still consider him a moral guide and fatherly mentor.

In a time when voices grow louder but less sincere, when leadership is often reduced to branding and bravado, the life of Ibrahim Saeed stands as a timeless example of principled activism, prophetic wisdom, and universal compassion.

His passing left a void that perhaps no one can fill – but his legacy lights the path for those who dare to walk it.


[With input from Mohammed Markada and Ameen Hassan]

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Pride of the Nation> Personality / by Mohammed Talha Siddi Bapa / May 30th, 2025

MEIF Excellence Awards and Annual Meet 2025 celebrates educational brilliance

Dakshina Kannada & Udupi District , KARNATAKA :

Udupi :

The excellence awards ceremony and annual meet – 2025 of the Muslim Educational Institutions Federation (MEIF) of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, held at Barakah International School, Adyar Mangaluru, on May 22.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Mohan Alva, chairman of Alva’s Education Foundation, Moodbidri, said, “Education institutions should not be limited to one community. Education institutions should not be confined to the community that founded them. Instead, schools should reflect a “mini-India” that transcends barriers of religion, caste, and ethnicity. Everyone should have access to education. An atmosphere must be created where all are included. Just as India is home to various castes, religions, languages, and ethnicities, schools too should represent this diversity and become a mini-India. Schools should be a reflection of society, imparting education that builds communities rather than dividing them”

Praising the achievements of MEIF, Dr Mohan Alva also promised assistance in providing scouts and guides training to students in MEIF schools.

MEIF honorary president Umar T K delivered a keynote address, and MEIF president Moosabbi P Bary presided over the event.

A booklet detailing the federation’s annual programmes for 2024-25 was unveiled by Y Abdulla Javed, director of Yenepoya Group.

President of the Baraka Group of Institutions Ashraf Bajpe and Unni Haji, , along with Bahrain Sinan Zakariya, were honored during the ceremony.

National trainer Rajendra Bhat also shared his thoughts.

The event also included a felicitation ceremony honoring students who achieved outstanding results in PUC and SSLC examinations.

Outstanding SSLC performers from MEIF schools who were felicitated include Sumaiyya Nuha (619), Dakshin S Salian (618), Nidha Khadeeja Noor (617).

PUC toppers honored include Prithvi Acharya (585), Ayesha (584), Ayesha Shamran (584), Farahath M A (591), Maheen Fathima (590), Ayesha Falak (563), Aleemath Sayida (556), and Nafia T N (556).

From MEIF SSLC Kodagu – Fizah V (618), MEIF SSLC Chikkamagaluru – Taheen Fathima (597), and Karnataka SSLC state topper Shagufta Anjum from Sirsi (625) were also felicitated with mementos and cash awards.

Vice president of the Presidency Group of Institutions Suhail Ahmed and president of the Manipal HPR Group of Institutions Hariprasad Rai, were present as chief guests and extended their best wishes.

MEIF East Zone vice president Mustafa Sullia welcomed the gathering. General secretary Riyaz Ahmed K B and secretary Mohammad Sharik announced the names of the award-winning students. Farvez Ali delivered the vote of thanks, and lecturer Abdul Razak Anantadi compered the event.

MEIF Kodagu chapter president K A Shadli, Chikkamagaluru chapter president Zameer Ahmed, vice president Shabih Ahmed Qazi, and treasurer Nisar Fakir Mohammad were also present on the occasion.

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / Daijiworld / Home> Karnataka / by DaijiWorld Media Network – Udupi (TP) / May 23rd, 2025

Solidarity Youth Movement Inaugurates State Office in Karnataka

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

Bengaluru:

In a bold stride towards structured youth empowerment, the Solidarity Youth Movement Karnataka marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of its new state office in Bengaluru.

The formal opening ceremony was led by Dr. Mohammed Saad Belgami, Ameer-e-Halqa of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Karnataka, coinciding with the annual state Shura session.

Far from being a mere administrative facility, the new office symbolises the growing institutional presence and ideological clarity of a movement that has evolved from grassroots activism to state-wide influence. Speaking at the event, Dr. Naseem, State President of Solidarity Youth Movement, described the organisation not just as a protest platform, but as “a transformative force for grooming morally conscious and socially responsible youth leaders.”

From a Youth Wing to a Mass Movement
What began in 2008 as the “Youth Wing of JIH Karnataka” with just 250 members, formally transitioned into the Solidarity Youth Movement in 2016. Today, it boasts an expansive network across 27 districts with over 80 local units and a membership exceeding 7,000 – out of which more than 900 are actively engaged as trained “Activists.”

According to Dr. Naseem, this journey reflects the urgent need to channel the dynamism of youth towards constructive and long-term social reform. “We envision a generation of youth who are ethically upright and capable of leading society toward peace, progress, and justice,” he said. He emphasised the movement’s focus on skill development, employability training, and intellectual empowerment, aligning with both the constitutional ethos of India and the legacy of Islamic civilizational values.

Leadership Speaks
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Saad Belgami remarked, “From its inception, the Islamic movement has placed youth at the centre of its mission. Solidarity Youth Movement is a natural extension of this vision – shaping minds and building character.” He added that the 2022 Youth Convention acted as a catalyst, significantly expanding the movement’s outreach and operational capacity across Karnataka.

The event was also graced by former state presidents of JIH, Mr. Iqbal Mulla and Mr. Atherulla Shariff, along with other senior functionaries from various wings of the organisation.

A Nerve Centre for Change
With the establishment of this new state office, Solidarity Youth Movement is poised to further institutionalise its efforts in leadership training, civic engagement, and ideological grounding. The office is envisioned as a nerve centre for nurturing grassroots leadership, mentoring youth activists, and coordinating state-wide programs aimed at social justice and pluralistic harmony.

“This will be more than brick and mortar. It will be a lighthouse for Karnataka’s aspiring youth leadership,” said Dr. Naseem. “And a strategic base for long-term nation-building efforts,” he added with conviction.

As the curtain drew on the inaugural ceremony, the message was loud and clear: Solidarity Youth Movement is not just responding to the times – it is shaping them. And this new office stands as a testament to that mission. A platform today, a movement tomorrow. Indeed, a future-defining institution in the making.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News / by Mohammed Talha Siddi Bapa / May 12th, 2025

Chairman of Mitra Academy Iqbal Ahmed receives Lifetime Achievement Award by Education Today

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

Bengaluru:

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of education, Iqbal Ahmed, Chairperson of Little Flower Public School and Chairman of Mitra Academy in Bengaluru, was bestowed with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award – 2023 by Education Today Magazine.

The ceremony, held at the Taj Hotel Kempegowda International Airport Rd, Bengaluru, on December 11, 2023, celebrated Ahmed’s commitment to educational excellence.

“The accolade is a testament to Mr. Ahmed’s deep-rooted passion for education, driven by a sense of social responsibility. His leadership has not only elevated academic standards within the schools but has also prioritized holistic development, shaping students into well-rounded individuals with both knowledge and character. His dedication to excellence serves as an inspiration to educators and learners alike,” a press release stated.

The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes Iqbal Ahmed’s impact on the educational landscape, acknowledging his role in providing exceptional education at an accessible cost.

Expressing gratitude upon receiving the award, Iqbal Ahmed attributed the honour to the collective efforts of the school’s faculty, staff, students, and parents.

In addition to Iqbal Ahmed’s Lifetime Achievement Award, the ceremony also celebrated Tanveer Ahmed, CEO of Mitra Academy and Little Flower Public School, and his wife, Nafeesa Ahmed, Director of Presidency Group of Institutions Bengaluru/Mangaluru, who were honoured with the Power Couple Award for 2023 by Education Today Magazine.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> India / by Vartha Bharati / December 12th, 2023

Trailblazing Leadership Dr Nafeesa Ahmed’s Vision For Empowering Minds In Education

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

In the bustling city of Bangalore, where the convergence of tradition and modernity creates a unique educational landscape, Dr Nafeesa Ahmed stands as a beacon of transformative leadership in the field of education. Dr Nafeesa has carved out a unique path for herself as the Director of the Presidency Group of Institutions while also carrying on her father, Dr Nissar Ahmed’s legacy of excellence and innovation.

Dr Nafeesa Ahmed, Director, Presidency Group of Institutions, Bengaluru, Karnataka

Dr Nafeesa’s educational journey is nothing short of impressive. A graduate of Mount Carmel College, Bangalore, she holds a Bachelor of Business Management (BBM) degree and pursued postgraduate studies in English literature at Bangalore University. Her commitment to education led her to earn a bachelor’s degree in education from IGNOU. Venturing beyond Indian shores, Dr Nafeesa enriched her perspective with a Master’s in International Management from Royal Holloway, University of London. This international exposure was instrumental in shaping her understanding of global education trends.

Her dedication to continuous learning took her to the prestigious Harvard School, where she honed her skills in management and leadership. Dr Nafeesa’s academic prowess is underscored by her diverse qualifications, including a BBM, a B.Ed., an MA in English Literature, and a Master’s in International Management. Her educational journey serves as an inspiration, reflecting the importance of a broad and holistic approach to learning.

Leadership at the Presidency Group of Institutions

Taking the reins as the Director of the Presidency Group of Institutions, Dr Nafeesa has led the K-12 chain of elite institutions with a commitment to “Equal Opportunity in Diversity.” Her vision is to provide high-quality, affordable education to students from diverse backgrounds. Focusing on aspects like course structure, pedagogical innovation, and outcome-based evaluation, she has fostered a conducive teaching and learning environment.

During the challenging times of the pandemic, Dr Nafeesa displayed exemplary leadership by seamlessly transitioning the education system from physical to virtual and eventually to a mixed classroom approach. Her leadership has been pivotal in ensuring that the team of highly-qualified educators delivers the finest education to students.

Accolades and Achievements: A Trailblazer in Education

Dr Nafeesa’s journey is adorned with prestigious awards and recognitions, attesting to her significant contributions to the field of education. Notably, she received the Economic Times Power Icon Award for “Exceptional Contribution in Education” in 2020 and was honoured as “The Education Icon of the Year 2021” by Education Today. Her recognition as a ‘Speaker’ at the “APAC 5th Global Education & Skill Conclave” and features in Women Entrepreneurs and Education World India showcase her as a thought leader in the education domain.

A crowning achievement in her illustrious career is the conferral of a Ph.D., Philosophiae Doctor Honoris Causa (HC) in Education Management by Ecole Superieure Robert De Sorbon (ESRDS), France, Europe. The recognition, awarded at The House of Lords, London, is a testament to Dr Nafeesa’s global impact and commitment to educational excellence.

As Dr Nafeesa Ahmed continues to shape the future of education, her journey stands as an inspiration, showcasing the transformative power of visionary leadership in the realm of academia. In the words of Dr Nafeesa, “My loved ones have been my rock through thick and thin. Having their back has been crucial to my success.” Indeed, her success radiates not only through personal accolades but also through the positive impact she has had on the lives of countless students and educators.

source: http://www.outlookindia.com / Outlook / Home> Brand Studio / by The Outlook Bureau / March 08th, 2024