Jamia Islamia Ishaatul Uloom, located in Akkalkuwa, Nandurbar district, Maharashtra, India, is a well-known educational and welfare institution. This institution specializes in providing education based on a combination of Islamic and contemporary sciences. It was founded in 1979 by Maulana Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi. Due to its unique educational system, inclusion of modern subjects, and welfare services, the Jamia is considered one of the most prominent institutions in India.
History and Establishment
The foundation of the Jamia was laid in 1400 AH (1979) in the Chhoti Makrani Phali Mosque as a maktab (primary school) with only six students and one teacher. Through the relentless efforts of Maulana Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi and his associates, it grew into a full-fledged Jamia. Within a short span, the institution achieved significant progress in both educational and welfare sectors.
Educational Philosophy and Objectives
The educational philosophy of the Jamia is based on integrating religious and contemporary sciences. It adheres to the principle of “Qadeem Nafi aur Jadeed Saleh” (useful tradition and righteous modernity), enabling students to maintain their religious identity while acquiring modern skills to contribute to societal development.
Educational System and Departments
Religious Departments:
Dar Al-Tarbiyah (Moral Training)
Tahfiz Al-Qur’an (Qur’an Memorization)
Tajweed and Qira’at (Seven Qira’at)
Aalimiyat and Fazeelat (Islamic Theology and Higher Studies)
Specializations: Fatwa, English Da’wah Course
Department of Ijazah for Qur’an:
This department is dedicated to Hafiz students (those who have memorized the Qur’an). Here, students are trained to recite the Qur’an in the Hafs an Asim narration with precision. Additionally, they are taught to memorize the text of Muqaddimah Al-Jazariyah. Upon successfully completing their recitation and memorization, students receive an Ijazah (certification) that traces back to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ through a chain of 33 narrators. This ensures the preservation of authentic Qur’anic recitation and adds value to their skills.
Contemporary Departments:
Jamia introduced contemporary education in 1993. These departments include:
Engineering College: Degree and Diploma
Medical College: BUMS, MBBS, GNM
Pharmacy College: B. Pharmacy, D. Pharmacy, M. Pharmacy
B.Ed. and D.Ed. Courses
Urdu and English Medium Schools (from KG to 12th grade)
ITI (Industrial Training Institute)
NEET Coaching Classes
Vocational Training:
The institution offers practical skills training in:
Computer Science
Optical Science
Leather Crafting
Office Automation
Tailoring
Social Services
In addition to its achievements in education, Jamia Islamia Ashaatul Uloom has made remarkable contributions in the social sector, which include:
Construction of 7,500 mosques
12,000 water borewells
Establishment of 2,500 maktabs (primary religious schools)
Construction of 34 hospitals
Indian Institute of Medical Science and Research (Noor Hospital):
Noor Hospital, which houses 770 beds, is equipped with modern medical facilities and provides free treatment to hundreds of patients daily.
Distinctive Features
The Jamia has played a significant role in changing the negative perceptions associated with traditional Islamic schools (madrasas). It provides students with a blend of religious and contemporary education, enabling them to contribute effectively to society. Graduates of the Jamia are excelling in various fields, including medicine, engineering, teaching, law, and more.
Conclusion
Jamia Islamia Ishaatul Uloom is a model institution that seamlessly combines religious and worldly education while paving new paths in the educational landscape. Its significant contributions to society set a benchmark for others to follow.