Aligarh Muslim University is Founded by?
VerifiedAnswer: Syed Ahmad Khan
Explanation:
Sir Syed Ahmad Khan was a visionary reformer and educationist who founded Aligarh Muslim University in 1875. Born in 1817 in Delhi, he witnessed the decline of Mughal power and understood that Muslims needed modern education to progress in the changing times. His dedication to educational reform made him one of the most influential figures in Indian Muslim history.
The journey began with the establishment of the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College in Aligarh in 1875. Sir Syed Ahmad Khan believed that Muslims should embrace Western education while maintaining their religious and cultural identity. He wanted to create an institution that would bridge the gap between traditional Islamic learning and modern scientific knowledge.
The college was inspired by the Oxford and Cambridge model of education. Sir Syed visited England in 1869-70 and was deeply impressed by the British educational system. He wanted to create a similar environment in India where Muslim students could receive quality education in English while learning about their own heritage and religion.
The transformation from a college to a university happened in 1920, when the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College was granted university status by the British Government and became Aligarh Muslim University. This elevation recognized the institution's significant contribution to higher education and its role in producing skilled professionals and leaders.
Sir Syed's vision extended beyond just education. He founded several organizations and publications to support his cause. He established the Scientific Society in 1864, which translated Western scientific works into Urdu. He also published a magazine called "Tahdhib al-Akhlaq" (Social Reform) to spread awareness about modern education and social reforms among Muslims.
Today, Aligarh Muslim University stands as one of India's premier educational institutions, offering courses in various fields including medicine, engineering, law, and humanities. The university has produced numerous notable alumni including former Presidents of India, Supreme Court judges, renowned scientists, and distinguished scholars. Sir Syed Ahmad Khan's dream of creating an institution that would empower the Muslim community through education has been successfully realized, and his legacy continues to inspire students and educators across the world.
