IOS-Aliah University 5-day Summer School on Islamic Studies Inaugurated

IOS-Aliah University 5-day Summer School on Islamic Studies Inaugurated

Kolkata, April 21, 2025: Inaugural session of the 5-day Summer School on Islamic Studies jointly organised by the Institute of Objective Studies, Kolkata Chapter and Department of Islamic Theology, Aliah University, Kolkata concluded here today at The Park Circus campus of Aliah University Kolkata. The program witnessed a distinguished gathering of scholars, academicians, and policymakers from within India and abroad. The programme, conducted in both online and offline modes, aims to foster critical engagement with Islamic thought and contemporary scholarship among university students and young researchers.

The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Dr. M. Afzal Wani, Chairman, Institute of Objective Studies, New Delhi, who emphasised the need for intellectual rigour, ethical leadership, and skill development in contemporary Islamic scholarship. His address resonated with the participants, encouraging them to blend knowledge with action and character.

An expert address was delivered online by Prof. Dr. Mumtaz Ali, Chairman, Department of Usul-al-Din and Comparative Religion, International Islamic University Malaysia, who praised the university’s leadership and called the Summer School a reflection of organiser’s insightful and visionary approach to nurturing thoughtful, socially responsible scholars.

This was followed by an engaging theme address by Dr. Noorus Sabah Ismail, Member, West Bengal Madrasah Service Commission, Kolkata, who urged participants to treat the Qur’an not only as scripture but also as a compass for moral reasoning and social rectitude. Drawing inspiration from Prof. Wani’s keynote address, he highlighted the need to realign individual and collective priorities through the Qur’anic values.

In her guest address, Prof. Dr. Nargis Ahmed, Dean, Faculty of Science and Technology, Aliah  University, Kolkata, called the initiative a commendable step towards spiritual enrichment and intellectual development. She expressed her appreciation to the organisers for tailoring such a meaningful academic space for undergraduate and postgraduate students.

The international segment continued with a thought-provoking online presentation by Prof. Dr. Shukran Bin Abd Rahman, Dean, AbdulHamid Ahmad AbuSulayman Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences, International Islamic University, Malaysia. He offered a conceptual framework for understanding Islamic knowledge, using visual aids and a structured approach to explain how foundational and applied Islamic studies can transform learners’ worldviews.

Mr. Mohammad Nadimul Haque, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, in his special address, underscored the importance of being action-oriented rather than merely rhetorical. He stressed the need to preserve cultural and intellectual heritage through accessible and transformative education—lauding the Summer School as a vital step in that direction.

An insightful expert address was then presented by Prof. Dr. Omar Hasan Kasule, Secretary General, International Institute of Islamic Thought, USA. He spoke about how Islamic perspectives offer practical solutions to the challenges of modern society. Congratulating the organisers, he wished the participants an enriching five-day journey and presented a step-by-step framework for acquiring Islamic knowledge that is spiritually grounded and socially relevant.

Mr. Ahmed Hasan Imran, Chairman of the West Bengal Minorities Commission, delivered a powerful reflection on the value of historical consciousness. He urged participants to play an active role in preserving and learning from history to ensure a more informed and united society.

The inaugural session culminated with the presidential address by Prof. Dr. Rafikul Islam, Vice-Chancellor, Aliah University, Kolkata. Thanking both the in-person and online dignitaries, he addressed the participants directly, emphasising the role of such academic platforms in shaping enlightened worldviews among the youth. He congratulated all registrants and extended his best wishes for their intellectual and spiritual growth through the programme.

Earlier, the inaugural session began on a spiritual note with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an by Mr. Qari Kamaluddin Khan, Faculty, Department of Islamic Theology, Aliah University, Kolkata. This was followed by a warm and multilingual welcome address by Dr. Md. Ashraf Ali Nadwi Azhari, Head, Department of Islamic Theology, Aliah University, Kolkata. Dr. Azhari highlighted the significance of this academic initiative in promoting values-based education and extended a heartfelt welcome to all dignitaries and participants.

Mr. Abdul Basit Ismail, Coordinator, IOS, Kolkata Chapter, delivered the introductory address, acknowledging the continued support of Vice-Chancellor, Aliah University, Prof. Dr. Rafikul Islam, whose vision has been central to this initiative. He elaborated on the genesis of the Summer School on Islamic Studies and its long-term academic aspirations.

The formal proceedings concluded with the vote of thanks, followed by the announcement of lunch and the commencement of Business Session–I scheduled post-lunch.

With a confluence of distinguished thought leaders, rich scholarly discourse, and a committed audience, the inaugural session set the tone for an intellectually vibrant and spiritually uplifting the 5-day Summer School on Islamic Studies ahead.

 Brochure of Summer School Programme