UAE-based AMU alumni retrospect Sir Syed's iconoclastic vision to rekindle the current education system at a grand event in Sharjah

Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) alumni group in the UAE marked a memorable celebration of Sir Syed Day on Saturday (22 November), at Hotel Holiday International, Sharjah (UAE), marking the 208th birth anniversary of AMU’s visionary founder.

In present times, the relationship between India and the UAE touches new heights through a strategic partnership across economic, geopolitical, and cultural spheres. This year’s Sir Syed Day event was also in line with unprecedented bonding between the two great nations.

The UAE is India's third-largest trading partner and second-largest export destination. PM Modi has visited the UAE seven times over the past ten years, which ultimately led to the formation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2022. This bilateral initiative resulted in nearly 200 per cent growth in merchandise trade, increasing from $43.3 billion in FY 2020–21 to $83.7 billion in FY 2023–24.

The evening brought together over eight hundred AMU alumni from across the UAE, rekindling the spirit of their alma mater and reaffirming their commitment to Sir Syed's vision of educational accomplishment and social progress. Mr Z.I. Sherwani, Founder and CEO of Cordova Group of Companies, graced the event with his palpable presence as the Chief Guest.

On this occasion, Mr Z. I. Sherwani, Founder & CEO of Cordova, one of India's leading publishing and printing houses, expressed his thoughts in the following words. “In today’s world, innovative thinking and creative writing must evolve with modern educational technologies. If we want our youth to lead, we must equip them with tools that expand their imagination and sharpen their intellect. And if the AMU Alumni Association takes concrete steps to advance Sir Syed’s vision by establishing new institutes of science and technology, I assure you of my wholehearted support.” 

A special highlight of the evening was the remembrance of the longstanding goodwill extended by the UAE leadership towards India and Aligarh Muslim University. The foundations of this bond were laid by His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE, whose historic visit to AMU in 1975 not only strengthened bilateral cultural ties but also led to the establishment of petroleum studies at the university.

Engr. Ateeq Khan from Patrons and Executive Committee said, “Sir Syed taught us that true progress lies in empowering society through education. His vision continues to guide generations, including entrepreneurs and change-makers who believe that economic development and equality must go hand in hand. As socially responsible assets of society, we must continue to build, contribute, and uplift humanity.”

Mr Mohammad Anas Tayyab, alumnus of AMU, emphasised a more receptive approach towards technology adoption right from the school level to produce quality, responsible, and employable talent in the tech-driven era. He said, “As long as it is ethical, science is the indispensable ingredient of success in the sustainable world we are dreaming about.”

Echoing the thoughts of Mr Z. I. Sherwani, Mr Shariq Ullah Khan of the organising committee stated, “The world of education is evolving at the speed of light and there is a pressing need to maintain this pace, which is possible if we equip students with cutting-edge tools and innovative aptitude.”

Other distinguished members of the committee also expressed their views on Sir Syed's timeless vision, which transcends borders and generations, paving illuminated paths for millions across the globe.