AMUOBA Jeddah commemorated Sir Syed Day 2025 with great respect and enthusiasm, honoring the 208th birth anniversary of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the founder of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). Held at the Crystal Ballroom of Crowne Plaza Jeddah, the event brought together nearly 400 Aligs (AMU alumni) and their families, creating a vibrant atmosphere of pride and unity. The highlight of the evening was the address by H.E. Mr. Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, Consul General of India, who graced the occasion as Chief Guest.

The program began with a soulful recitation of the Holy Quran by Fahad Zinjani. Senior Alig Mubin Ahmed Khan was invited to preside over the event, being the senior-most Alig present.

In his speech, the Consul General emphasised that India’s story today is one of growth, innovation, and inclusivity, and that the Indian diaspora plays a pivotal role in this progress. He described the Alig community as a living bridge between India and Saudi Arabia, strengthening bilateral ties and contributing to Viksit Bharat. Referring to the recent AI & Data Science Workshop, he praised AMUOBA’s collaboration with the Consulate and highlighted the vast potential of diaspora-led talent development in technology, commerce, culture, and youth empowerment.

In his presidential address, Aqeel Jamil Khan reaffirmed Sir Syed’s vision that nation’s progress through education, reasoning, and institution-building. He highlighted AMUOBA Jeddah’s major initiatives, including the Youth Leadership Program to help youth think, speak, and lead, and the AI & Data Science Workshop to prepare students for future technologies. He noted that through Each One Teach One, the association has supported underprivileged students in Aligarh. He also mentioned upcoming mentorship sessions for students and India–Saudi business collaboration programs, being developed under the guidance of the Consul General, to promote the growth of Indian products in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The President also highlighted that across the Western Region they have nearly 400–500 Aligs, and around 2,000–3,000 across the Kingdom — a vibrant community contributing meaningfully to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Prof. Javed Musarrat, as Guest of Honor, commended AMUOBA’s contributions under the leadership of President Aqeel Jamil and his team, and reflected on Sir Syed’s legacy as a visionary, reformer, and institution-builder. He urged the community to embrace modern education, technology, and service, echoing Sir Syed’s call to “open minds, seek knowledge, and serve humanity.” The event reaffirmed the global Aligarian commitment to carrying forward Sir Syed’s mission.

Mr. Abdulrehman Amri, Senior Director at EFSiM, also extended his gratitude to AMUOBA for the warm welcome on their first Sir Syed Day. He shared that EFSiM believes in people, learning, and leadership— values that Sir Syed championed. He noted that the Aligarh spirit continues to shine in Saudi Arabia, where Aligarians are contributing to Vision 2030 across multiple sectors.

The event also honored Mr. Mohammad Hashim, Senior Alig & outgoing Consul (Commercial), and celebrated alumnus Mr. Danish Ghafoor with the launch of his new book My Musings. Senior Alig Bahjat Zinjani was presented a plaque of appreciation for his long community service in Jeddah.

The event also marked the release of the Alig Communique newsletter, curated by Rabnawaz Khan and Mohammed Shahnawaz Alam, showcasing AMUOBA’s activities and milestones.

A raffle draw, conducted by Mohammed Shah Nawaz, Danish Khan, and Dr. Omais Ansari, added an element of excitement, with prizes sponsored by generous contributors.

As per tradition, mementos and gifts were distributed to dignitaries and attendees by Advisors Nooruddin Khan, Aziz-ur-Rub, and Ateeq Siddiqui, along with President Aqeel Jamil Khan and other ExCom members — Asim Zeeshan, Prince Mufti Zia, Rabnawaz Khan, Mohammed Shah Nawaz, Mohammed Siraj, Dr. Omais Ansari, Abid Hussain, Dr. Abrar, Fahad Zinjani, and Danish Khan.

CG Fahad Ahmed Khan and President Aqeel Jamil Khan presented plaques to sponsors of the event in appreciation of their support.

Additionally, bouquets were presented by the young attendees, including Zaina, Izaan, Ayesha, Ahmed, Isa Khan, Anabia, Alhan, Zayan, Abdullah and Saman Omer, adding a charming touch to the event.

Vice President Asim Zeeshan delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing deep gratitude to all who contributed to the event’s success.

The program was gracefully anchored by General Secretary Prince Mufti Ziaul Hasan, whose eloquent Urdu couplets lit up the evening, adding a poetic charm and warmth that captivated the entire audience.

The other committee members including Abid Hussain Aftab, Dr. Abrar Ahmed, Fahad Zinjani, and the dedicated volunteers played a vital role in ensuring the event ran smoothly.

The event concluded with a soulful rendition of the university anthem “Taraana,” performed by the team of Ateeq Siddiqui, Asim Zeeshan, Prince Ziaul Hasan Mufti, Mohammed Sirajuddin, Rabnawaz Khan, and Nayyer Abbas, followed by a sumptuous dinner.