Voice of British Muslim Women

Rizwana Ali, Halesowen

The United Nations International Day of Education, observed annually on 24th January, highlights education as a fundamental human right and a vital driver of peace, development, and social progress. Established by the UN General Assembly in 2018, the day draws attention to the millions of children worldwide, particularly girls, who are still denied access to quality education.

From the Islamic perspective, education holds a central and sacred place. The first revelation of the Holy Qur’an began with the command:

“Recite in the name of thy Lord Who created.”

(Holy Qur’an, 96:2)

This powerful opening embraces that seeking knowledge is a divine obligation. The Qur’an further states:

“…Allah will raise those who believe from among you, and those to whom have knowledge is given, to degrees of rank…” (Holy Qur’an, 58:12)

The Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be on him) consistently encouraged the pursuit of knowledge and made it clear that education is obligatory for both men and women. At a time when girls were widely deprived of learning, Islam affirmed their right to education, dignity, and intellectual growth.

The education of girls is especially significant, as educated women play a crucial role in nurturing families and shaping future generations. Denying girls’ education stands in clear contradiction to Islamic teachings, which promote justice, empowerment, and equal opportunity.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community places great emphasis on education as a means of spiritual enlightenment, moral development, and service to humanity. Founded by His Holiness Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the Promised Messiah (peace be on him), the community actively supports educational initiatives around the world, with focus on girls’ education in underprivileged regions. Through schools, colleges, and humanitarian efforts, the community works to uplift societies through knowledge.

Guided by the motto “Love for All, Hatred for None,” the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community views education as a powerful tool for fostering understanding, peace, and mutual respect.

On this International Day of Education, Islam’s timeless message is clear: education is a moral and spiritual responsibility. By promoting knowledge for all, especially for girls, we lay the foundation for a more just, peaceful, and enlightened world.