The Aligarh Muslim University Alumni of Australia (AMUAA) celebrated its 33rd Sir Syed Day in Sydney with a vibrant gathering on Saturday 15 November at Bowman Hall, Blacktown, uniting alumni, families, students, and community leaders from across NSW.

The annual celebration—held globally by AMU communities—honours the enduring legacy of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the reformer and visionary who founded Aligarh Muslim University with the mission of uplifting society through education, intellectual progress, and social reform.

This year’s celebration was marked by a significant milestone: $47,000 was raised for the AMUAA Scholarship Fund, strengthening educational opportunities for students in need in India and ensuring that Sir Syed’s mission continues through future generations.

A warm and structured evening of reflection and celebration

The evening was presided over by President Riyaz Akhtar and coordinated by Secretary Arif Ahmed Qureshi, who began with an acknowledgement and overview of the program.

The event was elegantly compered by Osama Khursheed, with the children’s program led by Mariyam Hamid and Nuvaira Faiz.

A lively AMU trivia session welcomed guests into an atmosphere of community spirit followed by a serene recitation of the Holy Qur’an by Ayana Rahi, with the English translation presented by Naba Zia.

In his Welcome Address, President Riyaz Akhtar reflected on the Alumni’s achievements, the strengthening of youth engagement, and the ongoing responsibility of carrying forward Sir Syed’s message of enlightenment, unity, and social upliftment.

A heartwarming rendition of Whispers of Peace by the children added warmth to the evening.

A major highlight of the event was the address by the Chief Guest,
His Excellency Mr Gopal Baglay, High Commissioner of India to Australia.

Mr Baglay, a seasoned diplomat with distinguished postings across Sri Lanka, Europe, Central Asia, and the Prime Minister’s Office in New Delhi, spoke on the transformative power of education, the importance of harmonious coexistence, and the global relevance of AMU’s legacy.

His remarks in impeccable Lakhnawi Urdu on cultural understanding and global citizenship resonated deeply with the audience, reflecting the values Sir Syed championed.

Keynote address on cyber safety by Professor Tanveer Zia

The keynote speech, titled “Staying safe in a connected world,” was delivered by Professor Tanveer Zia, Head of Computer Science at the University of Notre Dame Australia and Founder of the Australian Institute of Cyber Security and Digital Forensics.

Professor Zia explored the growing need for digital resilience, cyber awareness, and proactive safety strategies in an age where individuals and communities are increasingly interconnected.

His practical guidance on safeguarding online identities and avoiding emerging cyber threats was appreciated by attendees across all age groups.

Cultural performances and community engagement

After the Maghrib break, audiences enjoyed a soulful shayri and ghazal performance by Mr Wahab Siddiqui, bringing a nostalgic touch to the evening’s cultural segment.

The Donation Appeal, inspired by Sir Syed’s lifelong dedication to educational empowerment, encouraged generous contributions and played a key role in helping AMUAA reach its $47,000 scholarship fund total.

Children delighted the audience with lively performances including:

  • Whisper of Peace (nasheed)

  • Itti Si Hansi, Chanda Chamke Chum Chum, and Chauk Chandni (Bollywood medley)

Performers included Aleeza Arif, Aaima Mustafa, Ayana Rahi, Ahil Bilal, Halima Zia, Haya Zia, Naba Zia, Sarah Sadiq, Mishel Zia, and Mariyam Adil.
Bouquets were presented by Aleeza Arif, Aaima Mustafa, Halima Zia, and Sarah Sadiq.

The Chief Guest presented Kids Awards to celebrate participation, confidence, and the creative spirit of the community’s youngest members.

The Sir Syed Day 2025 Sponsorship Awards honoured key supporters:

  • Mr Razeen – Human Appeal International

  • Mr Nazeem – Community Bank Lockhart & District (in absentia)

  • Mr Wassim – Grand Build Projects (in absentia)

  • Mr Irfan – Infinitive Finance Solutions

Sponsors were presented with mementos as an expression of gratitude for their continued support of AMUAA initiatives.

The evening concluded with the emotional and unifying AMU Tarana, performed by the Tarana Team, stirring memories of Aligarh and the timeless spirit of community upliftment.

A communal dinner closed an eventful night, offering attendees the opportunity to reconnect, share memories, and strengthen collaborative ties.

With $47,000 raised for the AMUAA Scholarship Fund, the 33rd Sir Syed Day stood as both a celebration of heritage and a meaningful investment in educational empowerment.

The AMU Alumni of Australia continues to uphold Sir Syed’s enduring message: “Progress through education.”