Aligarh, Eminent historian Prof. Irfan Habib, Professor Emeritus at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), today released the book “Aligarh Muslim University: A History”, authored by Dr. Shamim Akhtar, Director, Centre for Continuing and Adult Education and Extension, along with Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. Mohammad Mohsin Khan and other distinguished guests, at a function held at Sir Syed Academy, AMU. AMU Vice Chancellor Prof Naima Khatoon also graced the occasion and congratulated the author.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Irfan Habib recounted various anecdotes related to the establishment of Aligarh Muslim University and particularly praised the efforts of the Government of India in ensuring the University’s survival and protection during the Partition of India. He said that although the history of AMU has been written from different perspectives, this book is significant because it provides a comprehensive account of the role of universities in society as well as their governance and administration. He observed that while AMU has made invaluable contributions to nation-building and development, the Central Government also played a vital role in preserving and strengthening the University after Partition, a contribution that deserves due recognition. “Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru realised the national importance of this place of learning. He visited the campus a number of times and helped it get back on its feet,” he said.
He further remarked that the book is not only a history of AMU but also a study of Aligarh, tracing the various stages of the university’s development.
Presiding over the function, Prof. Mohammad Gulrez, former Officiating Vice Chancellor said that countless individuals had made sacrifices for the establishment and growth of AMU, with Sir Syed Ahmad Khan being the foremost among them. He noted that the distinctive feature of the Aligarh Movement was that it took the initiative on every front and laid the foundation for the spread of modern education in the country. He pointed out that the Women’s College at AMU was established in 1938, well before several other reputed colleges in Delhi. He added that many unique contributions of the Aligarh Movement have remained overlooked and need to be brought to public attention. In this regard, he described Dr. Shamim Akhtar’s book as a valuable addition.
Guest of Honour Prof. Mohammad Mohsin Khan, Pro Vice Chancellor, said the Aligarh Movement played a significant role in enriching the country’s intellectual and social landscape. Under the leadership of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the movement carried forward the tradition of enlightened thought. He remarked that history serves as a guide for the future and that by compiling the history of AMU, Dr. Shamim Akhtar had accomplished an important scholarly task. He described the release of the book by Prof. Irfan Habib as an auspicious occasion.
Prof. Syed Ali Nadeem Rezavi, former coordinator and chairman of the Department of History, spoke on the issues raised in the book. He said the book uniquely deals with AMU as a constitutional, administrative, and academic institution. He also pointed out aspects that could be added either in the form of a new book or in the form of additions in a new edition.
Prof. Shafey Kidwai, Director, Sir Syed Academy, delivered the welcome address. He said “Aligarh Muslim University: A History” is the study of AMU from the perspective of governance.
Dr. Mohammad Shahid, Deputy Director, proposed a vote of thanks, while Dr. Hussain Haider conducted the proceedings.
Source : Aligarh Muslim University News