International seminar on Muslim women’s contribution to science

The Department of Islamic Studies, Aligarh Muslim University organized an international seminar on “Muslim Women’s Contribution to Science and Technology”.

Addressing the inaugural session, chief guest and noted paediatrician, Dr. Hamida Tariq highlighted the contributions of Muslim to the field of science and technology and discussed the religious position for educational development and gender neutrality with regard to women. She also delved into the gender, and social and cultural constructions in society faced by Muslim women in pursuing higher studies.

The Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof Mirza Asmer Beg elaborated on the various aspects of the topic and urged Muslim Ulema to spread awareness regarding educational uplift of Muslim women and their emancipation from social dogmas. He highlighted the social and cultural problems faced by Muslim scholarship and suggested ways to overcome them for empowerment of society.

The guest of honour, Prof Farukh Arjmand discussed challenges faced by women while pursuing higher education. She remarked that most of the challenges have social bearing and do not have anything to do with the religious sanctions. She said that being a student of Chemistry, Islam always motivates her to delve into the mysteries of science and do researches in this field for larger benefits of humanity.

Delivering the keynote address, noted Islamic scholar, Dr. Raziul Islam Nadvi spoke on the contributions of Muslim women in science and highlighted the need for greater investment in education and training for women in these fields. He stressed the need for increased support and mentorship for women scientists and technologists, adding that Muslim men should recognize the educational rights of women which are sanctioned by Islam.

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Earlier, welcoming the guests, Chairman of the department, Prof Abdul Hamid Fazili emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Muslim women in science and technology. He said that the aim of the seminar is to highlight their contributions and to explore the challenges and issues they face in pursuing careers in these fields.

“The contributions of Muslim women to science and technology have often been overlooked or underestimated. This seminar is a step towards understanding their role in this field, and towards promoting greater diversity and inclusivity,” he added.

Seminar convenor, Dr. Bilal Ahmad Kutty said that the Muslim women’s contribution to science and technology has been neglected, while on the contrary they have done a lot in this field and this deserves to be recognized.

Dr Hameeda Tariq also inaugurated a fountain in the department premises and released two journals, Journal of the Institute of Islamic Studies (English) and Mujjalah Uloom-e-Islami (Urdu), along with two books by Dr Ziauddin.

An interactive session followed the deliberations in the seminar and participants engaged in discussion on a wide range of topics.

Firdousa Akhter conducted the programme and Prof Fazli extended the vote of thanks.