Messages
Please find below our humble assessment and suggestions for the next symposium.
Working Towards an Exemplary Community
No. 4 GMH Centre, 32 West Riding Row, Sherwood Next to 45th Cutting Sufi Musjid Tel: +27 31 207 5806 Fax: +2731 2075813
Email: mvision2020@telkomsa.net
3rd October 2006
Dear Zeinoul and Colleagues at Awqaf Foundation,
Assalamu Alaikum!
A post symposium analysis and assessment is a good exercise and it could yield great insights for greater organizational excellence, sustainable follow ups, and will undoubtedly increase our learning curves in so many respects.
No event, no matter what the level of our competencies, capacities, or track record, could ever be convened or pulled off with perfection. There are bound to be oversights and forgivable shortcomings from which all of us could and should learn to simply improve on these leading to the next symposium or event.
I’m sure by now the organizers would have received their fair share of criticism, suggestions to improve, what it could have done better or should not have done, and so forth. If you have received such inputs then this is an indication that people are generally and genuinely concerned about making their input to make our events the international best practice and the standard which others would emulate.
OUTCOMES
- It has been sometime since a conference or symposium of this calibre was convened in South Africa with delegates participating from Southern Africa. The convergence and divergence of minds from the Southern African Muslim community on an important theme like the work-in-progress construction of a contemporary Islamic civilization in Southern Africa is a vitally important focus. Such symposia, apart from bringing people together to reflect, generates a certain academic and synergistic energy which would impact on our communities throughout the regions. Unless we act in unison and with a common vision as to the making of a better future for Muslims and Islam in the region and in collaboration with our fellow Africans, not much contribution could be made and the very idea of building a contemporary civilization would be a forlorn dream. So the Awqaf symposium creates possibilities for us to keep the dream alive of building a sustainable and fecund Islamic civilization in our part of the world.
- And the fact that we have taken a resolution collectively to host the next conference in Malawi in three years time building on the same theme is in itself evidence that this conference was not merely a once off event but part of an ongoing attempt to achieve our objectives in terms of our civilization. Symposia of these is important to our self-esteem, generates a sense of hope within us, cement our brotherhood, creates a sense that we are one ummah and have a sense of belonging, and above all it provides us with a platform to reflect, think, and further our culture of learning.
- Some people say that conferences or symposia are mere talk shops and too costly to convene and that monies spent on these could have been better spent. But this is too short sighted a view and it fails to take into consideration that we are supposed to be an IQRA community as a matter of divine decree. For the believers knowledge is a must, and by extension talking, debating, reflecting, and listening to one another in forums like symposia and conferences are much needed initiatives which create the conducive atmosphere and enabling environments for us to create new frontiers for new learning, new inventions, new thought, and above all to renew our faith with vigour and energy in true submission to the Almighty Allah.
- When our civilization was at its zenith our societies were self-assured and were open to other cultures, other ways of looking at the world without fear or mistrust. The Awqaf symposium gave us a platform to share our perspectives and to adopt a more listening approach to the different perspectives which prevail within our communities. Although, the symposium was predominantly attended by Muslims, it is important that the varied and diverse voices within our communities be attentively echoed and listened to amongst ourselves, and ideas be debated in open and honest ways.
- The Awqaf symposium renewed and cemented perhaps more firmly this time the synergistic relationship between the South African Muslims and the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC). As a community our foreign linkages, particularly with countries having predominantly Muslim populations are critical for our own welfare and development. This relationship building has to be sustained and more resource inputs from these countries have to be mobilised to benefit a non-member country like South Africa.
- The building of ties with IRCICA, the Turkish cultural organization is quite important because Turkey with its geographical presence in both Asia and Europe could enrich our own experience as to better understand Europe, its culture, civilization, and how we could interact with them to the mutual benefit of both ourselves and them.
- The fact that IRCICA has promised to provide some scholarships to South Africans is a very positive and tangible outcome for the symposium. Of course, we need to take the offer to the next level to ensure it materialises into something practical, sooner rather than later. The study of arts and calligraphy are important dimensions of our civilizational thrust.
- Also, IRCICA’s offer to bring its cultural exhibition to South Africa should be grabbed with both hands because it presents us with opportunities to showcase Islam and Muslims to wider South African audiences by convening a national exhibition. Such an exhibition could also be synergistically and strategically linked to the forthcoming soccer world cup. This exhibition holds in great opportunities and prospects in the areas of commerce, culture, education, political exchanges, and linking countries for the greater good of us all.
- The symposium provided an interchange and exchange of ideas between the ulama, heads of NGOs, and other stakeholders who do not always get the opportunity to share and listen to one another’s perspectives. Some of ideas expressed at this symposium would have created an uproar and outcry from some of the ulama in the past. The fact that this did not happen here go to show that there is some kind of scholarship maturity or intellectual ripening taking place in many quarters in our society. This in itself is a sign that an Islamic civilization is in the making, particularly in Southern Africa.
- The plenary session, particularly the opening session was a great event which lend itself to a great public relations exercise for Awqaf and the participating delegates and heads of NGOs. Although our President Thabo Mbeki could not attend due to ill health, his speech reflect his understanding of what our civilization is all about and how it assumes its role within the broader community of world civilizations. This speech should be widely published. And Minister Essop Pahad should be congratulated for delivering the speech so passionately as if he had written it himself.
- The documentary of the Pretoria Central Mosque was a remarkable effort which should be circulated to a wider audience and it should be a model which others could emulate to document our spiritual and other achievements in media forms like films, videos, etc.
- Awqaf should look at the possibility of lending its support to the project initiated by the grandson of Imam Haroon who wants to complete the film documentary on his grandfather which was shown at the MSA students evening. The documentary is presently available in the form of a two minute trailer to give the audience or potential financiers an idea of the project and its ultimate content. The project is in need of funds. The documentation of our heroes who have contributed to our liberation struggle should be a priority for us and falls within the ambit of capturing the poignant moments in our history and the unfolding our civilization as it evolves with the many players making their input. This was also an outcome of the Awqaf symposium because it is a vital work in progress project capturing the life of a remarkable personality whose life and contribution to our society is worthy of emulation by posterity.
- As the convenors get busy to package the papers and other material which emerged out of the symposium for wider distribution, further debate will be generated, some positive and major, and others simply minor, and marginal.
- I think the partnership between Awqaf, IRCICA and the University of Johannesburg was a major feat for our community. More of such partnerships will have to be forged serving as catalysts to give our civilization the much needed push and impetus.
- This symposium on the whole produced some marvellous results which if pursued further would result in magnificent outcomes in the future, Insha’Allah. A symposium of this nature should be seen not as a once off event but as a work in progress which gains momentum and leap frogs into greater projects, opportunities, challenges, and a host of other dimensions which may not be immediately visible at this point in time.
CRITICISMS AND SUGGESTIONS!
I’m not much of a criticism guy because as Edward De Bono said that criticism is the most negative and least productive aspect of Western thought and thinking. Therefore I’m not going to dwell much on this. However, if I have to venture making some suggestions not to reinvent the wheel but to make a better mouse trap, I would suggest that we look at the following areas which warrant a second thought or reflection as to how we could improve our symposium next time around.
- I think papers should be concentrated around fewer themes and dealing with burning issues and challenges warranting serious resolution on our part as a community. I know getting the balance right between the intellectual discourse for the sake of it and dealing with pragmatic issues which face our community on a daily basis is a major challenge. Although in a first conference we want to be less controversial and tread quite carefully in order not upset any major stakeholders, a forum of this nature should be the best place to tackle the taboo and seek solutions for unmet challenges and unresolved crises. However, I must admit that some of the issues raised at this conference were quite pertinent to the current challenges facing us.
- Perhaps if we reduce the sessions to two papers per session rather than three more time would be allocated to the audience allowing for much more meaningful discussion and engagement with the presenters of papers.
- I think there should at least have been one plenary session per day where two to three papers are delivered to all the participants and thus facilitating a more focussed and concentrated discussion and interaction under one roof. The most burning issues should be chosen for discussion in the plenary sessions.
- I think some resolutions should have been taken at this symposium which summarise the central outcomes of the deliberations and discussions. Resolutions always help to focus us on what is important and what needs further attention and follow up. Of course, the resolution that the next conference be held in Malawi was important, and the decisions by IRCICA to fund certain scholarships were also important decisions in regard to the way forward.
- I hope Awqaf has made full use of the presence of so many stakeholders and resource people and got at least a minimum commitment from them to endorse certain decisions and to commit them to the programme of the organization, particularly in areas where Awqaf does not necessarily have a presence.
CONCLUSION
Vision 2020 was very proud to be associated with this Awqaf initiative and certainly sees the prospect of even greater partnering between the two formations.
The late Professor Ismail Faruqi of Temple University said that the earlier Muslim civilizations were sustained by strong awqaf which provided the necessary funding for projects crucial to our civilizational needs and aspirations. Awqaf has a vitally important contemporary role to play and the Muslim community should be made aware that this organization’s role is deeply rooted in the ethos, history, and edifice of Islam and Muslims. It is nothing less than a religious calling.
Fuad Hendricks – Muslim Vision 2020
Despite some drawbacks the Conference was a success & gave insight into problems affecting the region. looking forward to published papers!
Mrs Zuleikha Mayat, Durban
PRETORIA MUSLIM SCHOOL
Reg. No. 90/03356/08 G.D.E. CENTRE No. 232157
DARUS SALAAM ISLAMIC CENTRE CORUNDUM STREET EXTENSION, LAUDIUM
TEL: (012) 374-3185 & 374-3196 FAX: (012)374-5663
P.O. BOX 13216 LAUDIUM 0037 EMAIL: tshwanemuslimschool@telkomsa.net
ASSALAMU-ALAIKUM
4 September 2006
We at the Tshwane Muslim School would like to take this opportunity to thank Awqaf SA for allowing us the opportunity of attending the Symposium on Islamic Civilisation. The sessions were effectively chaired, coordinated and the aims of the symposium were realised.
This definitely increased our knowledge of the history and heritage of Islam in Southern Africa. The introduction delivered by the Premier Mr. Ebrahim Rasool was exceptional. It definitely set the tone for a brilliant 3-day forum of intellectuals delivering tremendous research.
The symposium was extremely inspiring and enlightening.
In conclusion it can be said that there is no way to gain Honour, Happiness, Peace and Tranquility in this life than to adopt and firmly “Hold Fast to the rope of Allah and do not create dissensions.” Insha – Allah the present situation will improve and the past days of Muslim glory will be revived.
Our special thanks to the Awqaf SA Team for their ready assistance and advice throughout the Symposium.
Shukran
Wassalaam
Muallima Nafeesa Ebrahim.
PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
PO Box 15
Cape Town
8000
Tel. (021) 403 2532
Fax (021) 403 2535
Email: fmahomed@anc.org.za
Admin Assistant: Tanya Chetty
Tel: (021) 403 3232
Email: tchetty@parliament.gov.za
OFFICE OF MRS. F. MAHOMED, MP
Dear Awqaf SA,
International Symposium on Islamic Civilization in Southern Africa
I wish to thank the Conference organizers for a wonderfully organized symposium.
The logistical arrangements were commendable and the accommodation was comfortable.
The discussions and debates were vibrant and stimulated intellectual discourse. However, the morning sessions were not adequately strengthened by good sound systems.
The International Symposium on Islamic Civilization in Southern Africa provided a platform for effective networking, debates, intellectual discourse with NGO’s, CBO’s, civil society, academics and politicians. An opportunity for the Muslim Community and other members of society to exchange notes and focus on general discussions, global challenges such as conflict prevention, peace and security, poverty alleviation, food security and scientific development etc.
My constructive critique points towards a stark absence of women’s participation on the event of the Gala Evening and the Opening Plenary. It is my hope that our next event will rectify the same. I am of the opinion that women should be on decision making structures such as the trusteeship of the organization. Women’s participation is paramount and will add value to the organization.
My further recommendations are as follows:
1) Create a think tank of Muslim Intellectuals
2) This think tank should be geared to respond to local, national and global challenges.
3) The organization should create a database of professionals, NGO’s, CBO’s and foot soldiers of our society.
4) Strategic involvement of Muslim women on all levels of the organizations.
Hope these comments will be helpful.
Your Sister In Islam
Farida Mahomed
Member of Parliament
Salamu alykum Jamian
I wish to convey my sincere gratitude for the excellent hospitality extended to all of us during the Symposium at Johannesburg.Your hospitality and generosity has left a lasting memory to all of us. I was very much impressed with your outstanding organization, commitment and tolerance. Please give me the chance to reciprocate in the future should our paths cross, here in Oman. My the Almighty Allah reward your efforts.
Yours sincerely
Ahmad Binsumeit Badawy Jamalilyl
Dept. of Microbiology,
College of Medicine,
Sultan Qaboos University
P O Box 35 Al Khodh, Muscat 123
Oman
Warm Greetings from Oman.
It is a great honor to express my sincere thanks and gratitude for your warm hospitality and kind assistance during my stay and participation in the International Symposium on Islamic Civilization in Johannesburg.
Please convey my greetings and thanks to the Steering Committee in South Africa and Istanbul. I would like to congratulate you all on a brilliant and successful symposium.
Prof. Ibrahim Soghayroun
Sultan Qaboos University
Muscat
Sultanate of Oman
(Paper Presenter)
Hope you and brothers there are all fine. I have heard from a Turkish participant about the success of the symposium and the great interest the people had. He said that everything was wonderful (as I already expected). This is a good beginning and inshaallah more great events will follow.
Congratulations and salaams to all.
Ali – (Turkey)
I write to express my sincere thanks to you all and everyone else who organised the symposium.
We had a great deal to learn from everything that came before us and most importantly in the organisation.
Many of the things outside academics were of great value to me and i hope i will pass on some of the ideals of awqaf to my people in Uganda.
Am greatly interested in getting more information on the activities of Awqaf so that our people can learn the spirit of voluntarism.
Thanks very much for everything.
I will email my other comments on Organisation in subsequent mails.
Wasalaam.
SEKATAWA MUHAMMAD
(Paper Presenter – Uganda)
Dear Colleagues,
I am terribly sorry to be so late in writing to you to express my gratitude for your hospitality, care and friendship. Shortly after my arrival home I had to leave again and was too busy to write. I very much appreciate your invitation which enabled me to participate in the international symposium on Islamic Civilisation in Southern Africa, to meet so many colleagues and enjoy the exchange of of ideas and knowledge.Thank you very much.
With best wishes and many thanks,
Viera Vilhanova
(Paper Presenter- Slovakia)
Allow me to congratulate you guys for the superb way in which you organized
just about everything… from the gala dinner, the sessions, the eatables,
the cultural evening … and above all, the very kind and hospitable
manner in which we were treated.
For this I am most grateful to all of you guys as this was really my first
international symposium ever.
Thank you for allowing me to present my paper as it really generated a lot
of interest.
I sincerely and thoroughly enjoyed the symposium and some of the debates which followed … from Rasool’s speech and throughout many papers…left one indelible golden thread which rang throughout the symposium… and that is, that we cannot survive and grow if our communities are not exposed and educated to live side by side in this nation of ours of so many diverse cultures.
May Allah s.w.t reward you abundantly for all the hard work, Insha-allah.
Ebrahim Rhoda
(Paper Presenter- Cape Town)
A Participants experience of the International Symposium on Islamic Civilization in Southern Africa By: Zarina Hassem *
If my experience as a participant at the symposium had to be summed up in a few words it would be; “extremely enlightening, a very worthwhile learning experience, but above all an eye-opener”.
The various presentations provided a platform for people to discuss important current issues that relate to Islam and Muslims, in different countries, and although the time was short and it seemed as though discussions could never be completed, it had to be realised and accepted that the issues that need to be dealt with and the discussions that have to be held go far beyond the confines of such a forum.
In a very important way then, the symposium was a platform, a framework which needs to be built upon continuously, and hence this symposium has been, for me, above all things, an “eye-opener”. It can perhaps be described as a guiding light, which lights up the path, and shows you the way, but you cannot magically reach the end of the path, once it has been highlighted, you need to take the necessary steps to walk that path. In this way, the discussions, presentations and networking of Muslims from all around Southern Africa, have provided us with viable paths to follow, but a lot of work still needs to be done in order for Muslims to reach their goals.
In my opinion, the most important theme that emerged from the symposium was that MUSLIMS NEED TO UNITE. The need for Muslims to come together, with one common vision was quite evident in many discussions and presentations.
For instance, presentations focussed on racism between Muslims and how we need to combat it, on the after effects of Colonialism and how this brutal system assisted in dividing Muslims, on the need to mix with and share Islam, as a religion with people from other races and creeds, etc, these all had this idea of unity as the underlying theme. The recognition that the Muslim community contains a variety of skills and expertise in different fields, religious as well as secular highlighted the extreme potential that we, as a united community, have. What was even more refreshing to see was that various members of the Ulema are beginning to acknowledge the fact that they need to draw upon the knowledge and expertise of professionals in order to combat current social and political dilemma’s that face the Muslim Ummah.
This was made very clear by the President of the Muslim Judicial Council, Sheikh Ihsaan Hendricks, when he mentioned the need to involve members from the professional community in different fields as the Ulema no longer have all the skills that are necessary to deal with all the problems that we are facing. I think that this further highlighted this theme of unity that I believe was so evident.
This symposium provided a crash course, if you can call it that, on what Islam is like in other African countries, the challenges faced by Muslims in Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Mozambique, Uganda, Malawi and other Southern African countries were brought into the foreground by the various presentations. Furthermore, it highlighted the diverse experiences of Muslims in different parts and areas of South Africa.
To conclude, I would just like to add that I have the greatest admiration and respect for all the speakers, especially the ones who do not speak English as a first language. They have strived to make their presentations as enlightening as possible, and while we all have faults and weaknesses, it is always better to focus on the strengths, in this case, I salute anyone who even had the courage to step up there and share the knowledge that they have acquired, with all of us. This alone, is a commendable act in itself. (May Allah Almighty reward them all!)
The words of the premier Ebrahim Rasool, in his opening speech resonate in my mind. He said something to the effect that; “vultures only attack you if you are already injured, and vultures only attack those who travel alone”, and I think that this links in beautifully with this theme of unity, or the need for unity that came out from this Symposium.
To all the organisers, and anyone involved in this Symposium, I would like to extent a huge Thank You, for working so hard in order to ensure this transfer of knowledge, above all other things. (May the Almighty Allah reward all the efforts of everyone involved). Hopefully, the discussions, goals, and feelings that we all need to contribute in some way, will not remain stuck with the Symposium, and InshaAllah, efforts will continue long after the side effects of attending the Symposium have worn off.
(*Sr Zarina Hassem is a Masters Psychometrics student at Wits University, Johannesburg. She has also been part of the research team on the study on Muslim Contribution to Poverty Alleviation co-sponsored by Awqaf SA and Sanzaf.)
THAMI
THE AFRICAN MUSLIM INSTITUTE
REG.no. 043-579-NPO
ONE AL1AH, ONE PROPHET, ONE ISLAM, ONE AMIR, ONE AFRICA
P.O. Box 111. Dube 1800, Soweto GP , South Africa
Tel: 982 2624 Mobile +27-83 478 8433
18 Shaaban 1427 / 11 September 2006
As-Salaamu Alaikum-
It’s with great pleasure that we write this letter to commend the National Awqaf Foundation of South Africa and its partners, the OIC Research Centre for Islamic History, Art, and Culture (IRCICA) and the University of Johannesburg for work well done with the hosting of the International Symposium on Islamic Civilisation in Southern Africa recently.
The effort to bring together African Muslims from different parts of the continent to deliberate on Islam in the southern part of the continent about its civilizations, history and heritage, including the present and future perspectives will go a long way towards building an awareness amongst peoples of this continent and elsewhere about the immensely positive role Islam and Muslims played and continue to play in its development.
We hope that the delegates, guests, organizers and volunteers will return to their respective environments enriched and invigorated with the spirit and desire to know more and or tell more about the civilizations of Islam and the Muslims in this beautiful mother continent.
This work also highlighted the leadership role played by Awqaf SA and its partners to gather well in excess of 1600 individuals from different parts of the continent, representing diverse organisations, institutions, governments etc, under one roof over several days with exceptional ability and integrity. This reinforces the fact that South Africa is steadily entrenching its leadership capabilities politically, socially, religiously and otherwise in the continent. That South Africa has both human and infrastructural capacity to host important events of any magnitude. That the peoples of this country continuously demonstrate their desire to see the continent outgrow oppression^ imperialism, poverty, ignorance and wars in favour of freedom, compassion, benevolence, abundance, knowledge and peace.
We would also like to thank all those local individuals, government departments, civil, academic and religious organisations, companies and non-governmental organisations for their contributions towards the success of the symposium. You arc all made of leadership material. Keep up the good work and do not stop with this symposium. South Africa and the continent need your contributions. To all our visitors and guests, thanks for all your contributions. You are also leaders in your own environments and the knowledge and experiences you shared with us all will always be cherished. May Allah increase you at all times in all your work. Amin.
Wa Salaam.
Malik A.N Arafat
Founder & Chairman
Salaams
I just wanted to say Jazakallah for everything. The symposium was
informative and really great, not only did we learn so much more about
Muslims in different parts of Africa and South Africa in the presentations,
but it also gave us a chance to interact with other people and learn from
them. I think that it was really successful and we definitely enjoyed it.
In the spirit of this, I hope that we continue to have such events on an
ongoing basis. (perhaps the next one we can focus on Women in Islam since
this issue gets so much negative media attention these days.)
Anyway, May Allah reward all of you people who worked and strived so hard,
you efforts are definitely not wasted!
Jazakallah once more, please keep me in mind for any future
enedeavours,events,research etc…
Wasallam
Zarina
Assalâmu ‘alaykum warahmatullahu wabarakatahu
Congratulations. Your hard work you provided us with the intellectual stimilus we have needed for a long time. For a long time there has been stagnation and inertia. Very little organised activity has taken place to encourage Muslims in Southern Africa to give expression to the knowledge and thought they are capable of producing.
By organising this forum you have provided the impetus needed to allow people to present information, to pose questions and to debate vital issues. It was gratifying to see the enthusiasm and interest displayed at the symposium.
I am sure the publication of the papers will lead to further flowering of discussion, debate, thought and growth.
I hope that there will be some way in which you can ensure that this not a once-off event.
Again, I know of the hard work you have put in and the sacrifices you, and your family, have made. I also wish to thank all those who have been part of this effort.
May Allah Ta’ala bless and reward you.
Yousuf I. Eshak
As per our brief conversation yesterday, I propose that all the interested attendees, paper presenters and other interested parties form an internet email group, where emails can be sent either:
- From the awqafsa office to all group members. This can be accomplished with a normal email distribution list or
- From any group member to be sent to all other group members. This can be done via for e.g. yahoo, google. See http://groups.yahoo.com/ or http://groups.google.com/ This group will need a moderator, who will set the rules and monitor all communication on this group and will also be able to control membership, including banning members if need be. I propose that somebody at awqafsa who uses email daily be the moderator.
Debates can be held, ideas, proposals and event information can be shared among members in the above manner, in order not to lose momentum generated from the symposium. I understand that all participants of the symposium have submitted their email addresses and therefore can be invited to join, were this group to be formed, Insha-Allah.
If required, several different groups can be formed for each different topic e.g Islamic education, History, economics etc, where interested parties can belong to one or more groups of their interest.
I do not have any past experience of forming a group, but I would think that it would be a simple matter to do so.
Was Salaam
Siraj Ghoor
Assalaamu Alaykum
The Organizers
On behalf of the Cape Family Research Forum, I would like to congratulate the National Awqaf Foundation, for organizing the International Symposium on Islamic Civilization in Southern Africa 2006.
I sincerely believe Islam and its leadership here in southern Africa has a very important role to play in the future of our vibrant but divided continent. Out of this conference may there arise leadership of which we all can be proud of, Insha Allah.
May Allah SWT reward you for your efforts and may this event be a great success.
Shamiel Gamildien
Chairperson
Cape Family Research Forum, Cape Town
Assalaamu-alaikum
Thank You for setting up such an important Symposium and I wish you all success therein, Insha-Allah.
Salaams and best regards.
Ahmed
(Dr Ahmed Adam)
Pretoria
ISLAMIC MEDICAL ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA
Gauteng Branch
Assalaamu alaikum
AwqafSA
Dear Brothers/Sisters
All praise is due to Allah (SWT) and peace and salutations on the Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
We, the Islamic Medical Association of Gauteng, wish to congratulate AwqafSA for the excellent work being done with regards to the International Symposium on Islamic Civilisation in South Africa.
Insha-Allah we pray that Allah (SWT) will guide you and make your task easy Ameen.
Jazaakallah
Was salaam
p.p. B. Khan
Dr. Humza Carim
Vice Chairperson
IMA Gauteng Executive Committee
I give my full support to your upcoming International Symposium.
Sheikh Saad Al-Talib
Malawi
Assalamoaleykoum,
We make Doah that Allah Taala makes the conference successful. If you remember at the end, if you can mail us the summaries or conclusions of the conference.
Doah
Iliasse Lala (Moufti)
Tana, Madagascar
The Director
International Symposium on Islamic Civilisation in Southern Africa
1-3 September 2006, Johannesburg, South Africa
13-8-2006
Salaam Alaikum
I wish you all the success in successfully conducting the International Symposium on Islamic Civilization in Southern Africa.
With all the best wishes and regards
Ahmed Namaee
Research Deputy
Islamic Research Foundation
Near Tabarsi Underpass,Adjoined to the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza(A.S.)
P. O. Box: 91735-366
Mashhad – IRAN
E-mail: info@islamic-rf.org
Website: www.islamic-rf.org
Telephone No: 0098-511-2232501-10
Fax No: 0098-511-2230005
29 August 2006
THE NATIONAL CO-ORDINATOR
National Awqaf Foundation of South Africa
Johannesburg
Dear Brother,
As Salaamu Alaykum
We, at Al Falaah College, congratulate you on initiating this international symposium on Islamic Civilization in Southern Africa.
We believe that this symposium is very important because it will help us understand our roots and the influence of Islam in Southern Africa.
We pray that the Ummah will benefit tremendously from the inputs and response of the participating scholars.
May Allah (SWT) grant us success.
__________________
O.F.Ameen (Principal)