Updated 15 January 2013

One of the unsung heroes of The World Federation
5 January 1929 – 22 January 2011

Professor Mohamed Husein Merchant, a retired professor of Chemistry, who lived in Dongri, Mumbai was the Chairman and Managing Trustee of As-Safeena Welfare until 2006 when he retired.

In 1986, following a visit by a team from The World Federation consisting of Dr Mohamed Taki Walji (then Chairman of Medical Advisory Board), Dr Gulamabbas Rajpar of Sweden and Mr Mohamed Raza Daya visited the slums of Govandi and saw for themselves the abject poverty and degradation of Muslims. They identified healthcare and education as two key areas that would uplift the community living in Govandi. In their report they recommended establishment of a school and a clinic in the area and in 1987, As-Safeena Trust was formed. Dr Gulamabbas Moledina of Moshi who was then resident in Mumbai was appointed as the Chairman and Managing Trustee.  In 1991, when Dr Moledina immigrated to Canada, Prof Merchant took over as the Managing Trustee.

Over the years, the clinic in Govandi has provided healthcare to thousands of patients who have received treatment and more importantly given health education so that they are able to look after themselves and reduce ill health. On the other hand, the school has enrolled hundreds of young children and continues to provide that vital start in education to the children of 2.5 to 5 years old till today. Since 2004, we have seen the emergence of university graduates every year having started their education at our school in Govandi.

Professor Merchant, a highly intelligent and diligent person, understood the ethos of the project which was to enable the slum dwellers to find out for themselves, the causes and prevention of illness and then to explore how to manage them without having to undergo expensive and often un-necessary medical intervention. He knew very well the importance of preventative health care, immunisation and education; which are the key factors to get out of the rut of poverty and dependence.

He visited the project regularly, initially several times a week and then almost weekly. He made sure the project ran efficiently and achieved the objectives set out. At his advanced age, it is admirable that Professor travelled from Dongri – Central Mumbai - to the Govandi slums by bus which is one and half hour journey; and that too at his own expense.

Besides visiting the project, he also kept full accounts of the trust, prepared regular reports and sent them to WF offices in Stanmore. He had to deal with Human Resources issues of the staff of the project and all ancillary matters. He organised payment of salaries and wages and kept a close eye on the work of all aspects of the project. He made sure the premises were maintained and arranged for their repair work. Suffice to say, he was the whole and soul of the project.

Sadly Professor Merchant died on 22.1.2011 in Mumbai. We will all remember his selfless services to the poor and needy.

He was indeed one of the many unsung heroes of The World Federation, whose silent yet solid contribution allowed The World Federation to serve Community and Humanity and made it an exemplary organization.  It behoves for all those aspiring to serve The World Federation to look into the annals of its history and learn from such personalities as Marhum Professor Merchant.

For further information email secretariat@world-federation.org