ALIGARH, September 19: The Department of Sunni Theology, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), organised a special lecture on “Academic and Cultural Traditions of Aligarh Muslim University”, chaired by Prof. Mohammad Rashid Islahi, Chairman, Department of Sunni Theology.
The Guest of Honour, Prof. Vibha Sharma, Department of English and Member In-Charge, Public Relations, AMU, urged students of Sunni Theology to recognise the value of time and develop their abilities to their fullest potential. She encouraged them to look beyond the boundaries of their department and prepare themselves to engage with the wider world.
Prof. Sharma urged the students to share the knowledge and wisdom contained in theological texts for the mental well-being of their peers and to initiate constructive dialogue on issues concerning human welfare.
She emphasised that students should strive to reach a level of excellence where their achievements become a source of pride for the University. She urged them to make full use of the opportunities available at AMU, broaden their intellectual horizons and develop themselves into confident and capable individuals whose knowledge and abilities can contribute meaningfully to society.
Prof. Aftab Alam, Dean, Faculty of International Studies, and the other guest speaker, highlighted the distinctive academic and formative environment of AMU. He said that Sir Syed’s vision extended beyond classroom education to the overall development of students, with residential life providing opportunities for interaction among students from diverse linguistic and religious backgrounds.
Prof. Alam also encouraged students to strengthen their relationship with books at a time when reading habits are declining. He stressed that books remain an important source of knowledge, companionship and intellectual growth.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Prof. Mohammad Rashid Islahi emphasised the importance of education in enabling individuals to live with dignity and contribute to a peaceful and harmonious society. Referring to Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s educational vision, he said that the foundation of the institution was laid to help the community overcome illiteracy and equip students with education relevant to the needs of the country.
The programme was conducted by Dr. Rehan Akhtar, Department of Sunni Theology, and Dr. Nadeem Ashraf proposed the vote of thanks.
Prof. Mohammad Saud Alam, Dr. Nadeem Ashraf, Dr. Mohammad Asim, Dr. Mohammad Nasir and Dr. Habib-ur-Rahman, faculty members of the Department, besides a large number of research scholars and students, attended the programme.
