By the grace of Allah (SWT), I have had the opportunity of studying in a variety of different locations and through a variety of different approaches. Very early on in my life, I made a decision to pursue Islamic Studies in the traditional hawza of Mashhad, Iran. I also spent 2 years in a traditional subcontinent style hawza in Delhi. Later on, I spent a further year in Qum. I am currently pursuing an MA in Nutritional Therapy.

All these experiences have given me a valuable insight into the traditional Islamic approaches to the study of Islam. My current study in the UK has also exposed me to the Western Academic system and approach, although in a different field.

When my time allows, I enjoy performing tableegh related activities for the community from the mimbar, in the classroom, via study circles, in the form translations and also by some original writing.

I have a high level of respect and admiration for all those young people ready to dedicate their lives for the study of Islam. However, a common problem is often that once they are inspired with the love of the religion they do not find a suitable channel for their continued service to Islam and resort to other forms of employment. Service to Islam then becomes a secondary item on their busy agendas. They are not to blame for this, rather the wider understanding needs to be developed to absorb such talented and committed individuals. I admire this course for not only does it provide skills and knowledge, but, finally, also guarantees the successful graduates a realistic and rewarding career.

On many occasions I have heard feedback from my sisters that the guidance given from the scholars, whilst being with the best intentions and utmost sincerity, is not matching the needs of the younger generation. It appears that this course will tackle this problem, as it includes a syllabus that has been drawn directly from the input of the community and thus in tune with the needs of the community.

I am also very pleased that students are encouraged to study with their spouses. I feel this will create a concentrated and encompassing environment for their studies and will help create true scholars with an ongoing mentor type figure in their lives, with whom they are able to cross reference their thoughts and seek advice at every stage.

I am delighted that a long term approach has been chosen whereby both the worldly and next-worldly development of the graduates is considered. I congratulate the award of an MA by a Western University for the successful candidates, giving them an opportunity for further study, research and avenues for professional advancement.

A key component that tends to be over looked in the traditional seminaries is the process of guidance. It is hearting to note that this course will equip the graduates with both content and the skills required to pass on that knowledge in a format that is recognised and appreciated by the community especially the younger generations.

I would like to congratulate the first few candidates for an excellent choice in their lives and I would like to offer my humble prayers to them and to the organisers for a long term successful programme.

The students are fortunate to be in the protective shadow of the daughter of Imam Ali (as). I am sure that each time they catch a glimpse of the holy shrine, its shining dome, and towering minarets, they will remember the sacrifices of the great lady, and will find solace in the fact that for Islam to succeed, ultimately sacrifices are required.

Sakinabai Ismail
7 September 2007