THIS refers to the article ‘Insha Allah Khan Insha and Sir Syed Ahmed Khan’s bicentennial passed almost unnoticed’ (March 28) by Rauf Parekh. I would like to acknowledge with thanks the suggestions by Mr Parekh.

He has rightly suggested a steady flow of books, and articles at the 200th birth anniversary of the great visionary, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan who paved the way for educational, political, cultural and literary revival of the people of the subcontinent, in particular, Muslims, in general, when Muslims were passing through a dark period after 1857.

Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology (SSUET), as a legacy of Sir Syed’s philosophy, has already started to celebrate the 200th birth anniversary of Sir Syed in a befitting manner.

The university has published wall and desk calendars carrying important quotes of Sir Syed. Two lectures on Sir Syed’s cultural concept and his religious perception by Dr Abu Sufyan Islahi, Head of Arabic Department of Aligarh Muslim University, were arranged at the campus.

SSUET also published a booklet, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan Se Sir Syed University Tak that highlights his services and efforts for the enlightenment of students and youth.

SSUET also intends to publish a book History of SSUET — as Legacy of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan. The book includes the life, history and contributions of Sir Syed, and how Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys’ Association carried forward his philosophy that led to the establishment of SSUET as the first engineering university to have been established in the private sector.

The programme also includes giving Sir Syed Ahmed Khan lifetime scientific achievement award for peace to Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan who carried forward Sir Syed’s philosophy in terms of attaining scientific education to the level of excellence.

I hope these programmes will be able to convey the message and essence of Sir Syed’s philosophy.

Jawaid Anwar

Chancellor, SSUET

Karachi

Published in Dawn, April 15th, 2017