By: Abdul Rahman Baig, YaHind.Com
AMUOBA Jeddah celebrated Sir Syed Day 2025 with great respect, marking the 208th birth anniversary of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan at the Crystal Ballroom, Crowne Plaza Jeddah. Nearly 400 Aligs and their families attended, creating an atmosphere of pride and unity. The Chief Guest, H.E. Mr. Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, Consul General of India, delivered the evening’s keynote address.
The program opened with a soulful Quran recitation by Fahad Zinjani, followed by Senior Alig Mubin Ahmed Khan presiding over the event.
In his impactful speech, the Consul General highlighted India’s progress driven by innovation and inclusivity, and praised the Indian diaspora—especially Aligs—as a living bridge linking India and Saudi Arabia. He commended AMUOBA’s AI & Data Science Workshop and emphasized the community’s growing role in technology, youth development, commerce, and culture.
President Aqeel Jamil Khan reaffirmed Sir Syed’s vision of education and reasoning as pillars of national progress. He highlighted AMUOBA’s initiatives, including the Youth Leadership Program, the AI & Data Science Workshop, Each One Teach One, upcoming mentorship sessions, and India–Saudi business collaboration efforts under the Consul General’s guidance. He noted that the Western Region has nearly 400–500 Aligs, and 2,000–3,000 across the Kingdom—contributing meaningfully to Vision 2030.
Guest of Honor Prof. Javed Musarrat praised AMUOBA’s community work and urged Aligs to embrace modern education and service in line with Sir Syed’s mission.
EFSiM Senior Director Mr. Abdulrehman Amri appreciated AMUOBA’s hospitality and shared how EFSiM’s values align with Sir Syed’s vision.
The event also honored Senior Alig & Consul (Commercial) Mr. Mohammad Hashim, celebrated author Mr. Danish Ghafoor with the launch of his book My Musings, and recognized Bahjat Zinjani for his long-standing community service.
The Alig Communique newsletter, curated by Rabnawaz Khan and Mohammed Shahnawaz Alam, was released, followed by an exciting raffle draw conducted by Mohammed Shah Nawaz, Danish Khan, and Dr. Omais Ansari.
Mementos were presented by Advisors Nooruddin Khan, Aziz-ur-Rub, and Ateeq Siddiqui, along with President Aqeel Jamil Khan and 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. Sponsors were also recognized with plaques.
Bouquets by young attendees — Zaina, Izaan, Ayesha, Ahmed, Isa Khan, Anabia, Alhan, Zayan, Abdullah, and Saman Omer — added a warm touch. Vice President Asim Zeeshan delivered the vote of thanks, while General Secretary Prince Mufti Ziaul Hasan anchored the evening with eloquent Urdu couplets.