Rich tributes paid to Sir Syed Ahmad Khan on 207th birth anniversary
Aligarh : Sir Syed Day, the birth anniversary of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan was celebrated with traditional gaiety and fervour at the centres, colleges, residential halls and schools of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).
Inaugurating the Sir Syed Day function at the AMU Centre Malappuram, Kerala, Shri A. A. Rahim, Member of the Rajya Sabha and member of the AMU Court, emphasized AMU’s commitment to secularism and rational thinking, highlighting its role as a beacon of inclusive education.
Following the inaugural address, Prof. Mohammed Shakeel, Vice Chancellor, Jamia Millia Islamia, delivered an insightful speech on the history and contributions of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan. He concluded by urging attendees to preserve Sir Syed’s legacy.
Chief Guest Sayyid Munavarali Shihab Thangal exhorted the students to embrace the mission of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan by promoting education. He also recounted the establishment of the AMU Centre in Malappuram, noting Sir Syed’s efforts for the upliftment of Muslims and his broader impact on individuals from diverse backgrounds seeking higher education.
While delivering his presidential address, Dr Faisal K.P, Director of the Centre highlighted the significance of Sir Syed in contemporary India in reconciling between tradition and modernity and retaining the great ideals of unity in diversity.
Referring to the legacy of Sir Syed, he reminded the students that education is not merely the transfer of knowledge, but the creation of responsible citizens who embody integrity, compassion, and courage. He added that the AMU Centre, Malappuram, is proud to be a part of this illustrious legacy. Since its inception, the Centre has been working tirelessly to uphold Sir Syed’s ideals, striving for academic excellence, while fostering a spirit of inclusivity and critical thinking.
Mr. Ghalib Nashter, General Convenor of the Sir Syed Day Celebration, shared an overview of Sir Syed’s life. Dr. Naseema P.K., Department of Law also spoke on the occasion.
Mr. Mohammed Ahazam Khan, Assistant Registrar, welcomed the guests and delivered an opening address.
Dr. Mohammed Basheer K., Joint Convenor of the Sir Syed Day Celebration proposed a vote of thanks. Dr. Blessytha Kamrudheen and Mr. Syed Ahmad Saad conducted the programme.
The Abdullah Hall, Aligarh Muslim University celebrated Sir Syed Day, by paying rich tributes to the profound legacy of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan.
AMU Vice Chancellor Prof Naima Khatoon, Col. (Prof.) Neelima Gupta, Vice- Chancellor, Dr. Hari Singh Gour University, Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, and Prof. Masud Anwar Alavi, Principal of Women’s College, AMU, graced the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest, Prof. Neelima Gupta reflected on her long association with Aligarh and the growth of the university from its inception to its current status as a prestigious institution.
Prof. Gupta spoke passionately about the importance of holistic education, emphasizing that academic excellence must be complemented by character building and cultural enrichment.
She encouraged the young women of Abdullah Hall to embrace Sir Syed’s principles, urging them to manage their time effectively and adopt a balanced approach to education that integrates knowledge, personal growth, and cultural understanding.
Prof Gupta’s emphasis on resilience, adaptability, and faith in the face of challenges echoed the values that Sir Syed instilled in his students, leaving a lasting impact on all those present.
Earlier, delivering her welcome address, Dr. Ghazala Naheed, Provost of Abdullah Hall, said that education remains the most powerful tool to uphold and advance the legacy of Sir Syed.
She expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the esteemed guests, introducing the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour and highlighting their invaluable contributions to academia.
The hosts Umam Fatima Rizvi and Kaaminah Beigh extended a warm welcome to the guests.
The evening also had cultural performances including ghazals. Ms. Falak Naaz delivered an insightful speech on the life and legacy of Sir Syed.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Ansharah Kaiyoom.
AMU’s Ahmadi School for the Visually Challenged at Aligarh celebrated the 207th birth anniversary of Sir Syed, which was graced by AMU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Naima Khatoon. She interacted with the students and appreciated their performances, bringing joy and excitement to them.
During the Sir Syed week celebrations that began on October 10, the school hosted various literary, cultural, and sports events, including essay writing, quizzes, spelling bees, bait bazi, antakshari competitions, shot put, running and cricket match.
On the evening of October 17, the main function commenced with Qirat by Maryam of class I, The school team presented a welcome song and school anthem.
The students also presented a special skit entitled “Hausla” and an action song.
The chief guest, Prof.Roomana N. Siddiqui, Department of Psychology, AMU discussed Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s contributions and praised the school’s growth.
Prof. Nishat Afroz, Department of Pathology, J.N. Medical College, AMU expressed gratitude and admiration for the school campus.
Mr. Saad Hameed, TPO motivated the students and appreciated their performances.
Prof. Asfar Ali Khan, Director, School Education, AMU also attended the event.
Principal Dr. Naila Rashid welcomed the esteemed guests, expressing gratitude for their presence, while officiating Vice-Principal Mr. S Ahtasham Akbar proposed a vote of thanks.
Ms. Eram Fatima and Ms. Nudrat Jahan conducted the proceedings.
The Sir Syed Day function at AMU City Girls’ High School featured a series of engaging events.
The young students presented a welcome song, while Mr. Javed Akhtar, the Principal welcomed the esteemed guests including Mr. Rizwanur Rahman as the Chief Guest, and Prof. Abid Ali Khan, as the Guest of Honour.
Mr. Rizwanur Rahman delivered a stirring speech, sharing his thoughts on Sir Syed’s foresight and its enduring influence on modern education. “Sir Syed was ahead of his time, envisioning an India where education was accessible to all, regardless of gender or social background. His mission of spreading rational thought and scientific knowledge is even more pertinent today”, he noted.
Prof. Abid Ali Khan reflected on the relevance of Sir Syed’s philosophy in the present day, highlighting the visionary leader’s relentless efforts in establishing a scientific and progressive education system. He encouraged the students to imbibe Sir Syed’s ideals and strive for excellence.
The programme also featured speeches by the students.
The event was conducted by Sahar Naqvi and Zarreen Naaz. Ms Urooja Khan delivered a vote of thanks.