Saba Haider wins Illinois House seat with 71.2% of vote

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Aurangabad (Bulandshahr District) UTTAR PRADESH / Illinois, U.S.A. :

Photo: https://x.com/findkitty7

Indian American Democrat Saba Haider has won election to the Illinois House of Representatives, defeating Republican Brian Scopa in the November 3 midterm elections. Her victory in the 84th House District marks another milestone in the growing political representation of Indian Americans in Illinois.

Haider defeated Republican candidate Brian Scopa in the race for Illinois’ 84th House District, receiving 21,995 votes against Scopa’s 8,902, according to Ballotpedia’s reported results. Scopa received 28.8 percent of the vote, compared with Saba Haider’s 71.2 percent, giving her a margin of 13,093 votes.

The constituency includes parts of Will, DuPage, Kane and Kendall counties, covering communities such as Aurora, Naperville, Oswego, Montgomery and Boulder Hill. Her election takes her from county-level government to the Illinois state legislature, where she will represent residents of the 84th District.

Haider joins a growing group of Indian American lawmakers in Illinois, including Democratic state Rep. Nabeela Syed, who became the first South Asian woman elected to the Illinois General Assembly in 2022.

Syed, who currently represents Illinois House District 51, won Illinois Senate District 26 last week.

The Illinois General Assembly comprises the state House of Representatives and the state Senate, and is responsible for passing state laws and approving the state budget.

From Uttar Pradesh to American politics

Haider’s family traces its roots to Aurangabad in Uttar Pradesh’s Bulandshahr district. She grew up in Ghaziabad, where her father, Syed Ali Haider, worked as an engineer before retiring. Her mother, Chandni, has recalled that Haider participated in school debates and public-speaking competitions from an early age.

She attended Holy Child School in Ghaziabad before earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Ram Chameli Chadha Vishvas Girls’ College, where she reportedly topped her class. She subsequently pursued a Master of Science in Wildlife Sciences at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), earning a gold medal.

During her time at AMU, Haider also participated in wildlife census work, developing an academic background in environmental and wildlife studies before moving into community engagement and public service.

In 2006, she married Ali Kazmi, a computer science engineer whose family is from Bulandshahr. The couple moved to the United States in 2007 and settled in the Naperville area of Illinois. They have two children. After moving to the US, Haider became a certified yoga instructor, teaching students and professionals from different backgrounds. Her involvement in community activities, parent-teacher initiatives, interfaith engagement and local Democratic Party outreach gradually brought her into American public life.

Political journey : From an electoral setback to the state legislature

Saba Haider’s entry into electoral politics was not immediately successful. She first contested a DuPage County Board seat in 2022 but lost. She continued her involvement in local affairs and returned to the electoral contest in 2024. In November 2024, she defeated Republican incumbent Patricia “Patty” Gustin to win a seat on the DuPage County Board’s District 5. The official county canvass recorded 40,330 votes for Haider against 31,395 for Gustin, giving Haider 56.23 percent of the vote against Gustin’s 43.77 percent.

Her election to the county board made her the first Indian-origin woman elected to that local governing body, according to Clarion India. She subsequently chaired the board’s Strategic Planning and Environmental committees and served on the DuPage County Health Department’s Public Health Board.

In 2026, Haider took her political career to the state level. She won the Democratic primary for the 84th House District on Mar. 17, defeating Jared Ploger with 63.5 percent of the vote. She then defeated Scopa in the November general election.

Her campaign focused on affordable healthcare, education, economic growth, environmental sustainability and issues affecting working families and immigrant communities. Her transition from community-based work and county government to the Illinois legislature represents nearly two decades of life and public engagement in the United States.

What her Victory means

Saba Haider’s election adds another Indian American name to the growing list of South Asian-origin politicians holding elected office in the United States. Her political career has developed through local community involvement, county governance and now state-level representation.

Her background in wildlife sciences, experience in local government and family connections to Uttar Pradesh have also drawn attention in India, particularly in Ghaziabad, Aligarh and Bulandshahr, where her family has roots. Her election is significant not only for her family and the Indian American community but also for South Asian representation in Illinois state politics.

source: http://www.americanbazaaronline.com / The American Bazaar / Home / by Jayujyoti Mullick / November 08th, 2026

AMU Announces Winners of All India Essay Writing Competition 2026

Amazing Feats, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH / INDIA :

Aligarh :

Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) has announced the winners of its All-India Essay Writing Competition 2026, organised in English, Hindi and Urdu for university and college students across the country.

In the English category, Maliha Iqbal of Aligarh Muslim University secured first prize, followed by Apurva Dutta of Lady Shri Ram College for Women, University of Delhi, who won second prize, and Rajshree Mishra of the University of Allahabad, who secured third prize.

In the Urdu category, Mohammad Faizur Raza of Maulana Azad National Urdu University, Hyderabad, won first prize. Munawwar Ali, a PhD scholar in Urdu at AMU, secured second prize, while Sabi Ji, a PhD scholar in Urdu residing at Begum Azeezun Nisa Hall, AMU, won third prize.

In the Hindi category, Salwa Fatma of Women’s College, AMU, secured first prize. Musharraf Parwez of Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, won second prize, while Subhana Rihan of the Diploma in Information Technology programme at Women’s Polytechnic, AMU, secured third prize.

The competition invited essays on the theme “Technology and Ethics in 21st Century: Sir Syed’s Perspective” in English, with corresponding themes in Hindi and Urdu. It aimed to encourage students to reflect on the relationship between technological progress, ethical values and the educational vision of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan.

The first, second and third prize winners in each language category are entitled to cash awards of Rs. 25,000, Rs. 15,000 and Rs. 10,000, respectively.

source: http://www.indiaeducationdiary.in / India Education Diary / Home> Educational News> University News / by iednewsdesk / October 14th, 2026

Inayath Ali extends Rs 25 lac assistance to 100 poor families for daughters’ weddings

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru : 

In a gesture of compassion and social commitment, KPCC general secretary Inayath Ali extended financial assistance of Rs 25 lac to 100 economically disadvantaged families to support the marriage expenses of their daughters.

The assistance was distributed as part of the ‘Deepavali Jyothi Parva’ celebrations organised by the Inayath Ali Abhimani Balaga at Ambedkar Maidan, Kavoor, on Saturday.

Under the initiative, each of the 100 selected families received Rs 25,000, amounting to total financial assistance of Rs 25 lac. The initiative aimed to ease the financial burden on families struggling to meet the expenses of their daughters’ weddings.

Amid the festive celebrations, the initiative emerged as one of the most meaningful moments of the event, bringing joy and relief to 100 families.

The gesture reflected Inayath Ali’s commitment to extending support to underprivileged sections of society and spreading the message of compassion, humanity and social responsibility during the festival of lights.

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / Daijiworld / Home> Karnataka / by Daijiworld Media Network ,(Mangaluru) NJC / November 08th, 2026

Qayoom Sahib: A life of integrity

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Budgam, District, JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Obituary

Haji Abdul Qayoom Naseeb, a distinguished son of Charar-i-Sharief, was remembered as an honest politician, an accomplished scholar and a gentleman of rare humility. His life reflected a fine blend of intellectual depth, public service and personal integrity.

Born to Haji Abdul Aziz and Saja Apa, a deeply pious woman, Qayoom Sahib completed his M.A. and LL.B. from Aligarh Muslim University in 1952. He initially joined the Education Department as a lecturer but soon resigned to enter public life, where he went on to serve as a Minister on three occasions.


As Education Minister, he played an important role in shaping the education sector of Jammu and Kashmir. He was known for listening patiently to people’s grievances and making sincere efforts to address their problems, including helping many secure employment. He also served as Revenue Minister and earned respect across political circles for his honesty, sincerity and administrative experience.

Beyond politics, Qayoom Sahib was a voracious reader with a deep interest in literature, philosophy and intellectual thought. He studied Iqbaliyat, Ghalib, Maulana Rumi and Western thinkers extensively. During his student days at Aligarh, he presented a critical paper on renowned poet Ghulam Nabi Aarez at a literary symposium. Eminent critic Professor Rasheed Siddiqi appreciated his literary ability and observed that he had the potential to emerge as a great critic at the national level.


His speeches were marked by eloquence, clarity and intellectual substance. A man of few words, he possessed a dignified manner of expression and commanded respect across political differences. Former Chief Minister Bakshi Ghulam Mohammad acknowledged learning much from him. He also shared a close friendship with Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, while Dr Farooq Abdullah included him in his Cabinet.


Qayoom Sahib’s contribution to his native Charar-i-Sharief remains part of his enduring legacy. The Sports Stadium in his hometown stands as a lasting reminder of his association with the people and his commitment to public welfare.

He is fondly remembered as a noble human being, an able administrator and a politician whose integrity set a high standard. His humility, scholarship and service left an indelible mark on the political and social life of Budgam.

May Allah Almighty shower His infinite mercy upon the departed soul and grant him the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous. Ameen.

source: http://www.brighterkashmir.com / Brighter Kashmir / Home / by Inayat Gul / November 05th, 2026

Councillor Shagufta Chaudhary Zubair to Receive Allama Iqbal Award on World Urdu Day

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Leaders, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

DELHI :

Urdu Is Our Shared Cultural Heritage, Say Organisers

New Delhi:

Chauhan Bangar ward Councillor Shagufta Chaudhary Zubair will be honoured with the Allama Iqbal Award on November 9, World Urdu Day, for her contribution to promoting and serving the Urdu language. The award is being presented by the Urdu Development Organisation and the All India Unani Tibbi Congress.

World Urdu Day is observed each year on November 9, the birth anniversary of the poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal, known as Shair-e-Mashriq (the Poet of the East). The organisers say preparations for this year’s observance are almost complete.

The organisers described Urdu as more than a language: in their words, it is part of the country’s culture, identity and pride, and a language that has carried messages of love, brotherhood and national unity across religions, cultures and social groups. They said Urdu has played an important role in the freedom movement, literature, journalism, poetry and social reform, and has promoted love, tolerance and human values.

They said Urdu should not be limited to ceremonies and mushairas, and should be kept alive in daily life, in educational institutions, in homes and among the younger generation. Reading, writing and speaking Urdu, they said, is a cultural responsibility, and if the language is not protected, future generations may be deprived of a valuable heritage.

The organisers also said Allama Iqbal gave Urdu a new global identity through his thought and poetry, and that his message continues to guide young people. The purpose of marking World Urdu Day, they said, is to highlight the importance of Urdu and to strengthen collective efforts for its promotion.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / November 07th, 2026

Awaz-e-Khwateen launches NIKHAAR initiative for women’s development

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

NEW DELHI :

Shariqa Malik (Left) with others at the function

Bareilly (UP) :

Awaz e Khwateen, a New Delhi-based NGO working towards women’s empowerment, organised its Women’s Personality Development and Skill Enhancement Initiative NIKHAAR (Nurture, Inspire, Know, Hone, Aspire, Achieve, Rise) at the Islamia Girls Inter College here on Wednesday.

The NIKHAAR initiative workshop explained the importance of young women becoming confident, discovering themselves, the courage to question established beliefs and the willingness to keep learning.

Led by Uzma Qamar, Director of Eduvision, the NIKHAAR session explored the importance of personality development, self-awareness and the skills that help women navigate an ever-changing world. Principal Chaman Jahan supported the initiative.

Conceived as a platform for personal growth and skill enhancement, NIKHAAR aims to help women build confidence, strengthen communication, develop leadership qualities and recognise their potential. At its heart is a simple belief that growth is not just about acquiring new skills. It is also about letting go of the fears, assumptions and limitations that often prevent people from moving forward.

Speaking on the occasion, Shariqa Malik, Convenor of Awaz-e-Khwateen, said, “Change is the only constant, but embracing change is not always easy. Sometimes, the first step towards becoming who we aspire to be is unlearning who we have been taught to be. We must be willing to question old beliefs, let go of what holds us back and make room for new learnings. Growth begins when we allow ourselves to see the world differently and, in doing so, discover new possibilities within ourselves. Through NIKHAAR, we hope to create that space for women, a space where they can learn, question, express themselves and grow with confidence.”

The initiative reflects Awaz e Khwateen’s approach to empowerment as a continuous process that extends beyond access to opportunities. It recognises the importance of creating environments where women can develop their abilities, find their voices and feel equipped to make informed choices about their lives.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Mizan / by Aasha Khosa, ATV / October 22nd, 2026

Nashra Naim becomes first woman vice-president of AMU Students’ Union

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Nashra Naim

Women candidates created history in the Aligarh Muslim University Students’ Union elections by winning six of the 13 posts, including the vice-president’s position, as results were announced on Friday.

Nashra Naim became the first woman to be elected vice-president in the institution’s 105-year history. She secured 7,091 votes against her nearest rival’s 5,818. “I believe that achieving this in such a short time, with limited resources and a small team, was possible because of the dedication, courage, and sincerity of the people who joined us,” she said. “I feel that leadership needs to be redefined.”

Women also claimed a record five of the 10 cabinet member posts, marking a sharp rise in their representation.

Mohammad Noman Ashraf won the president’s post by a margin of more than 4,100 votes, while Mohammad Hamdan was elected secretary. Ashraf described the victory as the result of a long struggle after an eight-year gap in elections. “After a long struggle of eight years, we have finally achieved this opportunity, and it is a moment of great happiness,” he said. Hamdan added, “A victory this big comes with an even bigger responsibility, and I will do my best to fulfil it.”

Results were declared by Prof Javaid Talib, Chief Election Officer for the AMUSU and AMU Court elections, and Prof Nazia Hasan for the Women’s College Students’ Union. The polls were held after persistent student protests over three years. A senior faculty member noted that Gen Z protests had influenced the campaign, shifting focus beyond campus issues to broader national concerns, including those affecting Muslims.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Naima Khatoon praised the peaceful conduct of the elections as “a triumph of the highest democratic traditions” and welcomed the increased participation of women. No violence was reported during the campaign.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim / by Muslim Mirror Desk / November 06th, 2026

M’luru urologist Dr Zeeshan Hameed features in Stanford varsity’s list of world’s top 2% scientists

Amazing Feats, Karnataka (under research project), Science & Technology, Scientists (wef. August 27th,m 2023), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru :

Dr B M Zeeshan Hameed, professor and senior consultant, department of Urology and Renal Transplant, Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Mangaluru, has been featured in Stanford University’s list of the world’s top 2% scientists for 2026. He is among 18 Indian urologists, nephrologists, doctors and scientists recognised under the research subfield of urology and nephrology.

Dr Hameed’s research work spans urology, artificial intelligence (AI) applications in healthcare, medical technology and surgical techniques. His work includes studies on the use of AI and machine learning to identify kidney stones through CT scans and support the management of prostate cancer.

He has also worked on developing medical devices and applications related to urological procedures and patient care. These include Zedd scissors, a surgical instrument designed for the removal of non-muscle-invasive bladder tumours, and UROSTENTZ, a mobile application that helps doctors and patients track ureteric stents and monitor symptoms. His Rector scissors-needle system for tissue removal and intracavitary hydro-dissection received a grant of Rs 50 lac under the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council’s (BIRAC) BIG-16 programme in 2020.

His academic work includes 89 indexed research publications and five book chapters. He has also received recognition from professional bodies, including the Urology Society of India, for his contributions to research and innovation.

Dr Hameed completed his MBBS in 2008, MS in General Surgery in 2011 and MCh in Urology in 2015 from Kasturba Medical College under Manipal Academy of Higher Education. Before joining KMC Mangaluru in April 2024, he served as professor and head of the department of Urology at Father Muller Medical College, Mangaluru.

He is also associated with several professional organisations, including the SAARC Urology Association, the European Section of Urolithiasis (EULIS) and the International Training and Research in Uro-oncology and Endourology (iTRUE) group.

The Stanford University list recognises researchers based on citation-related indicators of their scientific contributions. Dr Hameed’s inclusion places his research among the work recognised in the field of urology and nephrology.

About Manipal Hospitals

Manipal Hospitals is one of India’s leading integrated healthcare providers serving over 8 million patients annually, focussed on providing accessible, high-quality healthcare services. Manipal’s integrated network today has a pan-India footprint of 50 hospitals with over 13,400 licensed beds across 14 states & union territories. The network is India’s largest multispecialty hospital network by bed capacity, supported by a talented pool of 11,000+ doctors and an employee strength of over 25,000.

With a commitment to provide patient-centric care, Manipal Hospitals combines clinical expertise with advanced technology, research and innovation to serve a multitude of patients across the globe. Its continued focus on clinical quality and operational excellence is reflected in its NABH accreditation, with several of its hospitals also accredited by NABL and recognised for its excellence in nursing and emergency care.

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / DaijiWorld.com / Home> Top Stories / by Daijiworld News Network – via Press Release / November 03rd, 2026

Meet Sarah Jukaku, Indian-origin wife of America’s first Muslim senator, with roots in Karnataka

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, NRI's / PIO's, Science & Technology, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bhatkal, KARNATAKA / Michigan, U.S.A. :

‘I might be more Indian than Arab,’ jokes US senator-elect about his South Indian family.

Dubai: 

Thousands of kilometres from Washington, a coastal town in Karnataka has found an unexpected reason to celebrate a historic American election victory.

When Democrat Abdul El Sayed became the first Muslim elected to the US Senate, defeating Republican Mike Rogers in Michigan, the spotlight also fell on his wife, Dr Sarah Jukaku — an American-born psychiatrist whose family roots stretch back to Bhatkal, a town about 140km from Mangaluru.

And while her husband has made history in American politics, Sarah has already made one thing clear about who calls the shots at home.

“Nobody tells him what to do, except me!” she joked at a campaign rally, drawing laughter from the audience.

It was a light-hearted glimpse into a marriage that has lasted two decades and brought together Egyptian-American and South Indian family traditions.

A Karnataka connection spanning generations

Sarah was born and raised in Michigan, but her family’s story begins in Bhatkal, where her grandfather, Jukaku Shamshuddin, was a prominent lawyer and public figure.

He served as deputy finance minister in the erstwhile Mysore State government under Chief Minister BD Jatti during the 1950s.

According to family accounts reported by Indian newspapers, Shamshuddin was among the region’s pioneering legal professionals and played a significant role in Bhatkal’s development.

He is remembered for helping bring electricity to the town and supporting improvements in roads, town planning and educational institutions.

His legacy remains visible through a building named in his honour by Anjuman Hami-e-Muslimeen, a charitable organisation that runs educational institutions in Bhatkal.

The family’s roots lie in the Nawayath community, whose history reflects centuries of trade and cultural connections between coastal Karnataka and the Arab world.

From Bhatkal to Michigan

Sarah’s father, Dr Tayeb Jukaku, grew up in Bhatkal and studied medicine in Bengaluru before moving abroad.

After spending time in the Middle East, he settled in Michigan in the 1980s and built a career as a nephrologist, a specialist in kidney diseases.

Although Sarah grew up in America, her father ensured that his children remained connected to their Indian heritage.

Family visits to Bengaluru and Bhatkal helped maintain relationships with relatives and introduced the younger generation to their ancestral hometown.

Her cousin, Jukaku Shamshuddin Zia, who divides his time between Dubai and Bengaluru, told The Indian Express that the family continued to stay in touch through visits and a family WhatsApp group.


For relatives in Karnataka, El Sayed’s victory has become a source of pride.

A doctor who married a future senator

Sarah’s own career is distinguished.

According to USA Today and The American Bazaar, Sarah studied sociology and Near Eastern studies at the University of Michigan before earning a master’s degree from the University of Oxford.

She later graduated from Columbia University’s Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons in 2015 and pursued a career in psychiatry.

She has worked in mental healthcare in Michigan and is associated with private psychiatric practice in Ann Arbor.

It was at the University of Michigan that she met Abdul El Sayed.

Both were involved in the university’s Muslim Students’ Association, and their friendship developed into a relationship.

The couple married in May 2006, when Sarah was 19.

They now have two daughters, Emmalee and Serene.

‘I might be more Indian than Arab’

After two decades of marriage, El-Sayed has developed a fondness for joking about his South Indian connections.

In an interview, he remarked that after being married into a South Indian family for 20 years, he had become thoroughly familiar with its culture.

“I might be more Indian than I am Arab,” he joked.

On another occasion, he described himself as being surrounded by “desi women”, referring affectionately to his wife and two daughters.

Sarah, meanwhile, was actively involved in his Senate campaign, appearing alongside him as he sought to make history in Michigan.

A historic victory in Michigan

El Sayed, 42, a former public health official, defeated Republican Mike Rogers in one of the most closely watched contests of the November 3 midterm elections.

His victory made him the first Muslim elected to the US Senate and kept the seat in Democratic hands following the retirement of Senator Gary Peters.

The Democrat campaigned on reducing living costs, expanding healthcare and limiting corporate influence in politics.

But his election also carried a deeply personal significance for a family whose journey stretches from coastal Karnataka to America’s political establishment.

For Sarah Jukaku, the moment brought together two worlds: the American state where she grew up and the Indian town that helped shape her family’s history.

And for Bhatkal, a place thousands of kilometres from Michigan, the election has given residents a remarkable connection to Washington — through a granddaughter of the town who stood beside her husband as he made history.

source: gulfnews.com / Gulf News / Home> World> Americas / by Stephen N R, Senior Associate Editor, Gulf News / November 04th, 2026

IIAD launches U-LEAD for Girls, announces 7-Day Online leadership training program for women scholars

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Deoband, UTTAR PRADESH :

Bhopal :

India Islamic Academy Deoband (IIAD), has announced a seven-day online leadership and capacity-building workshop for women scholars, educators, students and professionals, scheduled to commence on November 15th, 2026, under its newly launched initiative, U-LEAD FOR GIRLS, which stands for Ulama Leadership, Empowerment and Development.

According to a Press release a total of 147 participants from across India, including professors, lawyers, college-going students, Aalimaat, teachers and school principals, participated in the initiative’s inaugural session. The programme introduced the objectives of the initiative and highlighted the importance of women’s education, leadership development, professional competencies and personal growth.

U-LEAD FOR GIRLS aims to establish a structured learning platform that combines educational and ethical foundations with practical skills relevant to women’s professional development, institutional responsibilities and community engagement. The initiative seeks to bring together women from religious, academic, legal and professional backgrounds, encouraging knowledge-sharing, collaboration and continuous learning.

IIAD Emphasises Leadership Development Alongside Education

Addressing the inaugural session, Maulana Mehdi Hasan Aini Qasmi, Founder and Director of IIAD, highlighted the importance of complementing education with structured training, intellectual development and practical leadership skills.

He emphasised the significant contribution of women scholars and educators to religious instruction, ethical development and the education of future generations. He underlined the need to equip them with contemporary teaching methodologies, effective communication and digital literacy and community engagement skills to strengthen their educational and social contributions. 

Describing U-LEAD FOR GIRLS as an institutional initiative for identifying and developing women’s potential, Maulana Qasmi stressed the importance of enabling participants to assume greater responsibilities in educational institutions, professional environments and community initiatives.

He also highlighted the growing relevance of emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence, in contemporary education and professional development. He emphasised the importance of digital competencies, mental health awareness and women’s health education, noting that the application of modern knowledge and technology should remain guided by ethical principles and responsible practice.

Referring to the importance of ambition, perseverance and continuous self-development, he quoted the renowned Urdu poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal.

Tu shaheen hai, parwaaz hai kaam tera; Tere saamne aasmaan aur bhi hain.

He encouraged participants to recognise their potential, continue developing their abilities and contribute constructively to society through knowledge, integrity and sustained effort.

Khadeeja Mominati highlights need for structured training for Women

Khadeeja Hasan Mominati, Co-Founder of IIAD and an Islamic scholar, delivered the welcome address, extending greetings to the participating women scholars, teachers, students and professionals. She also acknowledged Syeda Ismat, who is expected to play a supervisory role in the programme.

Mominati explained that IIAD’s educational approach extends beyond religious instruction to include capacity-building, personal development and the practical application of knowledge. Following capacity-building initiatives for male scholars and participants, the academy has expanded its training efforts to women through U-LEAD FOR GIRLS.

She emphasised that educational advancement should be accompanied by personality development, self-confidence and practical competencies. Providing women with opportunities to identify their strengths, acquire new skills and apply their knowledge effectively can enhance their contributions to educational institutions, families and society.

She encouraged participants to engage themselves actively in the programme, ask questions, exchange perspectives and apply their learning in practical contexts. She explained that the initiative is intended to support women’s development through continuous learning, greater confidence and responsible participation in society.

Seven-Day Workshop to Cover Leadership, AI, Health & Counselling

The seven-day online workshop, beginning November 15, will address a range of subjects relevant to women’s educational, personal and professional development.

The proposed training areas include leadership and personality development, covering decision-making, teamwork, self-confidence and responsible leadership.

Communication and public speaking will focus on effective expression, presentation techniques and professional communication. Artificial intelligence and digital competencies will cover the responsible use of AI tools and digital technologies in educational and professional settings. Women’s health and hygiene will address foundational health awareness and personal hygiene practices. Mental health and emotional well-being will focus on understanding stress, emotional regulation and self-care.

Counselling and community guidance will address listening skills, understanding individual concerns and providing appropriate basic guidance. Planning and community engagement will focus on practical planning, educational initiatives and community-oriented activities.

The programme is intended to combine subject-based learning with practical exercises and interaction among participants. Its broader objective is to help women apply the knowledge and skills acquired to their educational responsibilities, professional activities and community initiatives.

Through this structured approach, IIAD seeks to strengthen participants’ ability to respond to emerging educational and social needs while encouraging collaboration among women from diverse academic and professional backgrounds.

Inaugural Session

The inaugural session was conducted by Alisha Fatima Mominati, a teacher at India Islamic Academy Deoband. The proceedings began with the recitation of the Holy Quran by Hafiza and Qaria Nadia Sabri, a teacher at IIAD.

Khansa Salah, a first-year Arabic student at the academy, presented a na’at in praise of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him.

Wasim Sahiba from Nalgonda, Telangana, also addressed the gathering and highlighted the importance of women’s education, structured training and leadership development.

The participation of 147 women from across India, representing academic, legal, educational and religious fields, reflected the initiative’s emphasis on interdisciplinary engagement, shared learning and practical skill development.

The inaugural programme provided an opportunity to introduce the objectives of U-LEAD FOR GIRLS and encourage women from diverse backgrounds to participate in structured leadership and capacity-building activities.

Registration Open 

India Islamic Academy Deoband has invited women scholars, teachers, students and professionals interested in leadership development, personal growth and contemporary skills to register for the seven-day online workshop.

Programme Details

Programme: U-LEAD FOR GIRLS, Ulama Leadership, Empowerment and Development

Commencement Date: November 15th, 2026; Duration: Seven days; Mode: Online Registration and Enquiries: +91 95571 13167

Interested participants may contact the academy on the number provided above for registration and further information.

source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> National Interest / by Pervez Bari / November 03rd, 2026