Jamia alumni recreate campus life in Riyadh

The Riyadh-based Jamia Millia Islamia Alumni Association (JMIAA) organized its annual event “A Jamia Campus Across the Sea” to recreate a campus-like milieu and afford opportunities for bonding between Jamiaites across generations.
The program was conceptualized by Ghizal Mahdi, founding member and current president of the association.
Mahdi welcomed the audience in his opening address and highlighted the major achievements of the association spelling out his vision for the next two years.
This year the program was graced by two prominent academics from Jamia, Zubair Meenai, a professor in the social work department, and Naseeb Khan, principal of the Jamia Senior Secondary School.
Meenai urged members to inculcate critical thinking and to question the status quo. He expressed admiration for the way the association has imbibed democratic values in its day-to-day activities.
“It is in the DNA of university to be a rebel with a cause, to rebel against injustice and hypocrisy,” he maintained.
Meenai said Jamia had taken progressive educational measures long before they were in vogue in educational circles.
Naseeb Khan delivered a powerful speech on the values and ideals that define Jamia.
He stated that Jamia is a confluence of modern and age-old values of brotherhood and mutual coexistence.
“It is akin to a platform from which students embark on a journey of learning and self discovery. It is a model of national integration where children from every religion, sect and denomination study together,” he said.
Former President Khursheed Anwar emphasized the need for the overseas alumni to contribute to the educational infinitives which are the core of Jamia’s values.
The program began with a recitation of the verses from the Holy Qur’an by Abdul Rahman, treasurer, and was followed by presentation of bouquets to the guests.




In addition the dignitaries were honored with mementos of appreciation for their services to their alma mater.
The program was organized under the guidance of Razia Zaidi, Bareerah Saad, Najma Tansir, Shazia Ahmed, Sania Nisar, Deeba Shamsad, Shabana Rehman, Sheeren Khan Shahana Murshid, Samia Pervez, Abid Aqeel, Najeeb Qasmi and other volunteers.
Meritorious children were awarded, and consolation prizes offered to all participating candidates.
JMIAA General Secretary Abid Aqeel presented a report on the activities of the association in chaste Urdu, whereas vice captain of the JMIAA cricket team presented a report on the performance of the cricket team which is registered with the Riyadh Cricket Association as well as the Riyadh Cricket League.
Mansoor Alrashidi, a former diplomat and Jamia alumnus, also participated in the event.