Giving back to their alma mater

Aligarhians celebrate Sir Syed Day in Sydney

The Aligarh Muslim University Alumni Association (AMUAA) celebrated the birth anniversary of their university’s founder Sir Syed Ahmad Khan earlier this month. For about 250 participants, it was an evening full of nostalgia as they met old friends and university mates, exchanged stories and networked.

The evening opened with a recitation from the Quran, and its translation by little children. Fasihuddin Khan, President of the alumni association welcomed chief guest Arun Kumar Goel (Consul General of India in Sydney) and Prof Gary Smith (Pro Vice Chancellor of University of Western Sydney). He acknowledged the contributions made by senior Aligarhians such as Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad, Mr. Zafar Ahmad Siddiqui and Mr. Shamim Ishaq. Among the achievements of their alumni associations, Mr Khan listed the scholarship project as one of the most prominent – AMUAA has sponsored 276 scholarships for students back in India since 1996. Other projects to motivate, encourage and inculcate the importance of education in children were listed, besides other community activities. Awards were presented to local children for their academic achievements.

An award of appreciation and acknowledgement was also presented to the chief guests by Dr Ahmad and Mr Khan.

In his address to the attendees, Mr Goel talked about his own personal connection with the Aligarh University and mentioned how this prestigious institution has changed the lives of people across many generations. He also praised scholarships generated by the association. Prof Smith mentioned the role of the University of Western Sydney (UWS) in furthering education in greater western Sydney.

In the entertainment section that followed, the performance by the children of Alumni was spectacular. Several young ones participated, showcasing their skills and talents. Small gifts were presented to the performers by Prof Mathur. Students of Qibla Grammar College performed an Australian song. The formal program was then followed by dinner and a mushaira in which local Urdu poets recited their poetry.

AMU Alumni Association is a thriving organisation in Australia with a well-knit community in Sydney and Melbourne. For any inquiries about the association and activities, contact President Fasihuddin Khan on 0414 694 839.

Hasnain Zaheer