The spirit of knowledge, faith and community came together in a memorable celebration as the Centre for Islamic Studies and Civilisation (CISAC), in partnership with Charles Sturt University (CSU) and Islamic Sciences and Research Academy (ISRA), held its 2026 Academic Graduation Ceremony at Waterview, Sydney Olympic Park, on Saturday 9 May 2026.
Graduands, families, academics, community leaders and guests gathered from across Australia to honour the achievements of students completing accredited Islamic studies programs ranging from Undergraduate Certificates to Doctor of Philosophy qualifications.
The elegant ceremony commenced with guest arrivals from 9:30am followed by the academic procession entering the hall. Proceedings formally opened with the Australian National Anthem and an acknowledgement of country delivered by the MC.
A moving Qur’an recitation by Cemal Arikan from Surah Hashr verses 21-24 set a reflective and spiritual tone for the event, reminding attendees of the sacred nature of knowledge and wisdom.
Head of School Professor Mehmet Ozalp addressed the audience, highlighting the continued growth of Islamic higher education in Australia and the unique contribution CISAC has made in developing academically rigorous and community-focused scholarship.
The keynote address by Dr Omer Atilla Ergi inspired graduates to carry their knowledge with humility, responsibility and service to society.
The ceremony celebrated students graduating across a wide range of programs including the Bachelor of Islamic Studies, Graduate Diploma of Islamic Studies, Graduate Certificate in Islamic Psychology, Master of Islamic Studies, Master of Classical Arabic and Doctor of Philosophy.
A special highlight of the event was the recognition of PhD graduate David Drennan whose thesis, “Transmitting al-Shatibi: Towards a Reception History of the Muwafaqat and Maqasid al-Shari’a in the Maliki School,” explored the historical transmission of Imam al-Shatibi’s ideas across centuries of Maliki scholarship in North and West Africa.
Graduates from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds walked proudly across the stage to receive their testamurs in front of cheering family members and friends.
The occasion reflected the increasing maturity of Islamic scholarship within Australia and the important role Muslim educational institutions continue to play in nurturing future leaders, educators, chaplains, researchers and community contributors.
Charles Sturt University Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Renée Leon PSM congratulated the graduands and acknowledged the importance of partnerships that foster academic excellence and intercultural understanding.
Associate Professor Zuleyha Keskin delivered the closing address, thanking staff, students and families for their commitment and sacrifices throughout the academic journey.
The formal proceedings concluded with the academic procession exiting at 12:30pm, followed by refreshments, networking and extensive family photography sessions. The joyful atmosphere was marked by emotional reunions, proud parents and graduates capturing lifelong memories in their academic regalia.
Since its establishment in 2009, CISAC in collaboration with ISRA has become a pioneering institution delivering accredited university-level Islamic studies programs in Australia through its partnership with Charles Sturt University.
The institution continues to build a reputation for combining traditional Islamic scholarship with contemporary academic standards and community engagement.
The graduation booklet carried a timeless quote attributed to Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib: “Knowledge is my companion; it is with me wherever I go.”
The words perfectly reflected the spirit of the occasion — a celebration not merely of certificates and degrees, but of lifelong learning, service and intellectual growth grounded in faith and character.
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