Muslim social scientists meet at AMU

A two-day meet to revitalise the Indian Association of Muslim Social Scientists (IAMSS) under the theme “Role of Social Scientists in Global Changing Scenario with Special Reference to India” was organised by faculty of social sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, in collaboration with the Institute of Objective Studies, New Delhi, on June 20-21, 2018 at Aligarh.

The programme began with a welcome address by Prof. Shamim Ahmad Ansari, dean, faculty of social sciences and convener of the meet. He emphasised the pivotal role of social scientists in articulating issues and challenges and suggesting intervention strategies to cope with the situation and find amicable solutions.

Prof. Z. M. Khan, Secretary General, IOS, in his introductory remark, emphasised the obligation of Muslim social scientists and requested youngsters to come forward and contribute at least a little to the uplift of the Muslim community.

The first business session comprised a lecture by Prof. Irfan Habib, Professor Emeritus, deptt. of history, AMU, on the “Role of Social Sciences and Importance of Values in Human Development”. He spoke about economic and educational issues related to Muslims. He also dwelt upon discrimination and madaris.

The second business session on “Contemporary National Scenario in Relation to Muslim Social Scientists” started with a lecture by Prof. Afzal Wani, faculty of law, GGSIP University, Delhi. He stressed the need to expand the search for knowledge. He focused on the importance of human being in their intellectual capability and qualities mentioned in the holy Quran.

Prof. Abdul Ali, former professor of Islamic Studies, AMU, while discussing the role of Muslim social scientists pointed out that failure of Muslims could be explained by a knowledge deficit. He cantered his lecture around various examples from the holy Quran and its implications in different fields.

Prof. Shoeb Abdullah, former professor, dept. of teachers’ training and non-formal education, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, dwelt upon the fact that there was a need to revisit the educational system, policies and resources. He added that the next important issue was making the young generations aware about the existing policies and opportunities and giving them a roadmap to move on.

On day 2 the sessions were on “Challenges and Strategies: Role of Indian Association of Muslim Social Scientists”; “Media’s Role in Making Societal Regulations” which held the undivided attention of the participants.

Later part of the day a 13 point resolution was adapted to enrol new members in the association, conduct medical and legal awareness camp, form committees to analyse constitutional safeguards, improve education in madarsas, study history and historiography and so on.