Jamia Millia Islamia marked its Foundation Day this week, with students and faculty coming together to celebrate over a century of academic excellence and social commitment. The campus was abuzz with speeches, cultural performances, and commemorations highlighting the university’s enduring role in shaping India’s intellectual and social landscape.
Founded in 1920 by visionaries including Hakim Ajmal Khan, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad Ansari, and Maulana Mohammad Ali Jauhar, Jamia Millia Islamia was established as a national institution during India’s struggle for independence. Its founders envisioned a university that would combine education with nation-building.
The early years were marked by hardship and resilience. Operating initially from Aligarh before relocating to Delhi, the university survived on public donations and the dedication of teachers and students. Despite these challenges, Jamia grew steadily, rooted in the ideals of self-reliance and social responsibility.
Foundation Day is more than a ceremonial event for the students, “Jamia’s Foundation Day is a day of pride and inspiration for me,” said one student while talking to FoEJ Media. “It reminds us that we belong to an institution that stands for knowledge, inclusivity, and social change. It also makes me reflect on the struggles that the founders faced to make education accessible, which makes our learning all the more meaningful,” he added.
The decorated campus and lively gatherings also left a mark on students. “Seeing the campus adorned and the crowd of students and alumni coming together made me realize the scale of Jamia’s legacy. Thousands of students are learning here because of this institution. Despite its diversity, there is a strong sense of unity and warmth among everyone, which is what makes Jamia truly special,” the student said.
This sense of purpose and courage, rooted in Jamia’s foundation, continues to resonate today. “The spirit of courage and mission that Jamia was founded upon is very much alive among students. Each of us strives to bring positive change to society, through academics, social work, or creative expression. Jamia reminds us that education is not just a degree; it is a responsibility,” he added.
Jamia Millia Islamia stands as a central university recognized for its academic rigor and commitment to inclusive education. Its alumni include journalists, civil servants, artists, and architects who have made significant contributions across India and abroad. Foundation Day celebrations this year reflected both pride in the past and aspirations for the future, as Jamia seeks to remain a centre for learning that inspires both knowledge and conscience.
