Islamia College Sukkur
Introduction
Islamia College Sukkur stands as a historic educational institution in Sindh, Pakistan, contributing significantly to the region’s academic and cultural landscape since its establishment in the mid-20th century.
Post-Partition Educational Crisis in Sukkur
Following the partition of India in 1947, Sukkur faced a severe shortage of educational facilities due to the migration of the Hindu community, which left many institutions vacant. This crisis prompted local leaders to establish new centers of learning to meet the needs of the growing Muslim population.
Establishment of Islamia College Sukkur
Islamia College Sukkur was established in the mid-1950s, with sources indicating either 1955 or 1956, through the efforts of the Muslim Education Society and key figures like Syed Hasan Mian Advocate, who served as the founder and chief patron of the college. In 1955, Nusrat Hassan, the District Collector of Sukkur, collaborated with local stakeholders to form a College Board, with Nusrat Hassan serving as the first chairman. Initially, the college operated from a repurposed building opposite Ghazi Rashid Park, near the old powerhouse, likely previously owned by Seth Mangharam or Diwan Bhojsingh. Classes were held in the evening, as the building was used for a school in the morning.
The college began by offering courses in Commerce and Arts to meet the community's immediate educational needs. To establish a permanent campus, the College Board acquired a large plot on a hillock, although parts of this land were later subject to encroachments. In 1959, Abdul Hamid Khan, the Commissioner of Khairpur Division, laid the foundation stone for the new college building. Construction commenced in 1961 with an estimated budget of 26 lakhs, and by 1962, the college shifted to its new campus, where classes began in the newly completed facilities.
Abdul Hamid Khan: A Key Figure in Sukkur’s Educational History
Introduction
Abdul Hamid Khan, a distinguished civil servant, played a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape of Sukkur, Pakistan. Known for his contributions as the Commissioner of Khairpur Division, he laid the foundation stone for Islamia College Sukkur, a landmark institution in Sindh’s post-partition history. This article explores his life, career, and legacy, optimized for SEO and crafted to ensure originality.
Early Life and Education
Abdul Hamid Khan was born in 1918 in Khurja, a city in Uttar Pradesh, India. Demonstrating academic excellence, he pursued higher education and successfully passed the prestigious Indian Administrative Service (IAS) examination in 1941, marking the beginning of a distinguished career in public administration.
Career as Commissioner of Khairpur Division
From September 16, 1956, to August 22, 1960, Abdul Hamid Khan served as the Commissioner of Khairpur Division, overseeing administrative and developmental initiatives in the region. His tenure was marked by a commitment to public welfare, particularly in education, which was a pressing need in post-partition Sindh.
Nusrat Hassan: Architect of Sukkur’s Educational and Urban Progress
Introduction
Nusrat Hassan, a distinguished civil servant, played a pivotal role in shaping Sukkur’s educational and urban landscape during his tenure as Collector and Deputy Commissioner in 1954–1955. His leadership in establishing Islamia College Sukkur and creating Nusrat Colonies addressed critical post-partition challenges, leaving a lasting legacy in Sindh, Pakistan. This article explores his life, achievements, and enduring contributions to education and migrant resettlement in Sukkur.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1922 in Moradabad, India, Nusrat Hassan grew up during a transformative period in South Asian history. He pursued higher education at Aligarh Muslim University, where his leadership qualities shone through. Elected president of the Muslim Student Federation Union twice, he demonstrated early commitment to community service and intellectual growth. In 1948, Hassan passed the competitive Civil Service of Pakistan (CSP) examination, securing a prestigious position in Pakistan’s administrative framework, which prepared him for his impactful role in Sukkur.
Administrative Career in Sukkur
Nusrat Hassan served as Collector of Sukkur from October 4, 1954, to October 14, 1955, and briefly as Deputy Collector from October 15, 1955, to November 12, 1955. His tenure coincided with the challenges of post-1947 partition, including educational disruptions and migrant resettlement needs. Hassan’s administrative vision and dedication to public welfare made him a key figure in addressing these issues.
Founding Islamia College Sukkur
One of Hassan’s most significant contributions was his role in establishing Islamia College Sukkur, a cornerstone of higher education in upper Sindh. In the early 1950s, Sukkur faced an educational crisis due to the migration of Hindu educators, which left local institutions struggling. Hassan, as Collector, collaborated with the Muslim Education Society to form a College Board, which he chaired. This board spearheaded the construction of the college, securing a plot on Minara Road for its permanent campus.
The college, established around 1955–1956, initially operated from a temporary building near Ghazi Rashid Park, offering Arts and Commerce courses. By 1962, it moved to its new campus, and in 1973, it was reorganized into Government Islamia Science College and Government Islamia Arts/Commerce College (Government Islamia College). Hassan’s leadership ensured that Sukkur’s youth had access to quality education without needing to travel to cities like Shikarpur or Karachi.
Migrant Resettlement and Nusrat Colonies
The 1947 partition led to a significant influx of migrants into Sukkur, many of whom faced housing shortages. Unable to secure allocated spaces, these migrants built makeshift huts in Lux Park. As Deputy Collector, Hassan addressed this crisis by overseeing the development of Nusrat Colonies, named in his honor, to provide proper housing for displaced families (Nusrat Colony). He also cleared Lux Park and transformed it into a beautifully landscaped green space adorned with flowers, enhancing Sukkur’s urban aesthetic and livability.
Broader Contributions to Sukkur
Hassan’s work extended beyond education and housing. His efforts in urban planning, particularly through the establishment of Nusrat Colonies, contributed to Sukkur’s recovery and growth as a vibrant city. These colonies remain a densely populated residential area, reflecting their role in accommodating post-partition migrants (Urban Development Strategy). His initiatives aligned with Sindh’s broader goals of improving social and economic development indicators.
Legacy
Nusrat Hassan’s contributions have left an indelible mark on Sukkur. Islamia College Sukkur continues to thrive as a leading educational institution, offering programs from intermediate to postgraduate levels, including BS (Computer Science) (Govt Islamia Science College). The Nusrat Colonies stand as a testament to his commitment to social welfare, providing homes for countless families. His leadership during a critical post-partition period highlights the power of dedicated public service in transforming communities.
Verification Challenges
While Hassan’s contributions are well-documented in local narratives, limited online sources make comprehensive verification challenging. The establishment of Islamia College and Nusrat Colonies is supported by historical accounts, but direct references to Hassan’s role are scarce. Researchers may need to consult Sindh Archives in Karachi or the Islamia College Sukkur administration for official records, such as board meeting minutes or government correspondence from 1954–1955.
Mirza Fazal Hussain: A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Heritage in Sukkur
Introduction
Mirza Fazal Hussain, a descendant of the illustrious Barlas Qizilbash Irani Mughal lineage, stands as a significant figure in Sukkur’s historical narrative. His father, Mirza Din Muhammad, was a master gunsmith whose expertise shaped the family’s legacy in Sindh. This article delves into their lives, contributions, and the cultural impact of their craftsmanship, particularly in the context of post-partition Sukkur and the broader Sindh region. By exploring their journey from Khairpur to Sukkur, we highlight their role in preserving a unique heritage.
Early Life and Ancestry
Mirza Fazal Hussain was born into the Barlas Qizilbash Irani Mughal clan, a lineage known for its historical ties to the Mughal Empire and Persian influences. His father, Mirza Din Muhammad, was born around 1863 or 1864 in a village situated between Kashmir and Sialkot, a region renowned for its artisanal traditions. Din Muhammad’s exceptional skills in gunsmithing caught the attention of Mir Ali Murad Khan Talpur, the ruler of Khairpur State, who invited him to Sindh and employed him in his court. This marked the beginning of the family’s deep connection with the region.
Mirza Din Muhammad’s Career in Khairpur
Upon arriving in Khairpur, Mirza Din Muhammad served as a skilled gunsmith under the patronage of Mir Ali Murad Khan Talpur. His expertise in crafting and repairing firearms made him a valued member of the court. During his tenure, which lasted until 1908, Din Muhammad contributed to the state’s armory, ensuring the availability of high-quality weapons for the ruler’s forces. His work was characterized by precision and artistry, reflecting the technological and aesthetic standards of the era.
Transition to Sukkur
In 1908, Mirza Din Muhammad relocated to Gharibabad, Sukkur, where he established his own gunsmithing workshop. This move marked a significant shift, as he transitioned from court service to entrepreneurship. His shop in Sukkur became a hub for firearm craftsmanship, catering to local demand in a region where guns were essential for security and hunting. During this period, only a select few gunsmiths in the region held official licenses for their trade. In Sindh, Mirza Din Muhammad was one of the privileged license holders, alongside Mistri Nizamuddin in Punjab, highlighting the exclusivity and prestige of their profession.
Mirza Fazal Hussain’s Role
While specific details about Mirza Fazal Hussain’s personal contributions are less documented, his association with the Islamia College Sukkur board suggests a role in community leadership. As a member of a prominent family, he likely inherited his father’s reputation and influence, contributing to Sukkur’s social and cultural fabric. The college, established in the mid-1950s to address post-partition educational needs, benefited from the involvement of notable figures like Fazal Hussain, who helped steer its development (Government Islamia College).
Cultural and Historical Significance
The journey of Mirza Din Muhammad and Mirza Fazal Hussain reflects the broader narrative of migration, adaptation, and contribution in post-partition Sindh. Their expertise in gunsmithing, a highly specialized craft, underscores the region’s reliance on skilled artisans during a period of political and social transition. The Barlas Qizilbash heritage, with its Mughal and Persian roots, added a layer of cultural richness to Sukkur, a city already known for its diverse communities.
Challenges in Verification
Due to limited online documentation, some details about Mirza Fazal Hussain’s life and contributions remain unverified. While Mirza Din Muhammad’s gunsmithing career is supported by historical accounts, further research into Sindh Archives or Khairpur State records may provide additional insights. Local oral histories or family records in Sukkur could also shed light on Fazal Hussain’s specific role in the community.
Legacy
The legacy of Mirza Fazal Hussain and Mirza Din Muhammad endures through their contributions to Sukkur’s cultural and industrial heritage. Din Muhammad’s gunsmithing shop in Gharibabad symbolized the family’s entrepreneurial spirit, while Fazal Hussain’s involvement with Islamia College Sukkur highlighted their commitment to education and community development. Their story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of migrant families in shaping Sindh’s post-partition identity.
Abdul Razzaq Raz: First Sindhi Teacher at Islamia College Sukkur and Literary Icon
Introduction
Abdul Razzaq Raz, a distinguished educator, poet, historian, and author, holds a significant place in the history of Islamia College Sukkur as its first Sindhi teacher. His multifaceted contributions to education, literature, and cultural development in Sukkur, Pakistan, have left an enduring legacy. From his academic roots at Aligarh Muslim University to his leadership in local governance and literary organizations, Raz played a pivotal role in shaping Sindh’s intellectual and cultural landscape post-1947 partition. This article explores his life, career, and lasting impact on Sukkur’s educational and literary heritage.
Early Life and Education
Born to Abdul Rauf, Abdul Razzaq Raz pursued his education at Aligarh Muslim University, a prestigious institution known for fostering intellectual and literary talent. His time at Aligarh shaped his passion for writing and scholarship, equipping him with the skills to contribute to both education and literature. The university’s emphasis on cultural and intellectual development influenced Raz’s later work in promoting Sindhi language and literature.
Career in Journalism and Governance
Raz began his professional journey in journalism, serving as the manager of the newspaper Al-Wahid and as the editor of its weekly edition for one year. This role honed his editorial skills and deepened his engagement with contemporary issues. In 1948, he returned to his hometown of Sukkur, where he took on the significant role of Chief Officer of Sukkur Municipality for seven years. During this period, he contributed to urban development and governance, addressing the challenges faced by Sukkur in the post-partition era.
Role at Islamia College Sukkur
Abdul Razzaq Raz is recognized as the first Sindhi teacher at Islamia College Sukkur, a landmark institution established around 1955–1956 to address the educational crisis following the migration of Hindu teachers after the 1947 partition (Government Islamia College). The college, initially operating in a temporary building, offered Arts and Commerce courses to meet the community’s immediate needs. Raz’s role as a teacher was instrumental in introducing Sindhi language instruction, contributing to the college’s mission of providing accessible higher education to local students who previously had to travel to cities like Shikarpur, Hyderabad, or Karachi (Sukkur History).
His presence as a Sindhi educator in a faculty predominantly composed of Urdu-speaking teachers marked a significant step toward cultural inclusivity at the college. Raz’s teaching likely inspired students and helped preserve Sindhi linguistic and cultural identity during a transformative period in Sukkur’s history.
Literary Contributions
Raz was a prolific literary figure, excelling as a historian, short story writer, and poet. His notable works include:
Tarikh Saltanat Delhi: A historical account of the Delhi Sultanate, showcasing his expertise as a historian.
Dak Bungalow: A collection of short stories reflecting his narrative skill.
Ma: A work that further highlights his versatility as a writer.
As the patron of Habib Publications, Raz supported the dissemination of literary works in Sindh. He also founded the weekly newspaper Sang, providing a platform for local writers and intellectuals to share their ideas. His contributions to journalism and publishing strengthened Sukkur’s literary community.
Cultural Leadership
Raz’s commitment to Sindhi culture extended beyond writing. He established a literary society in Sukkur, fostering a vibrant community of writers, poets, and scholars. As chairman of the Latif Academy, he promoted the legacy of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai, a revered Sindhi poet, through cultural events and literary initiatives. His membership in the Majlis Adab Writers Guild and various other committees further amplified his influence in Sindh’s literary circles, making him a central figure in the region’s cultural renaissance.
Challenges in Verification
While Abdul Razzaq Raz’s contributions are significant, limited online documentation poses challenges in verifying all details of his life and work. The lack of direct references to his role as the first Sindhi teacher at Islamia College Sukkur in available sources suggests that further research into local archives, such as those at Islamia College Sukkur or the Sindh Archives in Karachi, may be necessary. These archives could contain faculty records, historical documents, or publications from the 1950s that confirm his tenure and contributions.
Legacy
Abdul Razzaq Raz’s legacy as an educator and literary icon endures in Sukkur and beyond. His role as the first Sindhi teacher at Islamia College Sukkur helped lay the foundation for the institution’s growth into one of the largest and most prestigious colleges in upper Sindh (Govt Islamia Science College). His literary works and cultural initiatives continue to inspire scholars, writers, and students, preserving Sindhi heritage in a rapidly changing world.
Dr. Memon Abdul Majeed: Pioneering Sindhi Educator and Scholar in Sukkur
Introduction
Dr. Memon Abdul Majeed, a distinguished scholar and educator, was one of the first Sindhi teachers at Islamia College Sukkur, playing a vital role in shaping the institution’s early academic landscape. Born in 1930 and passing in 1996, his contributions as an author and intellectual left a lasting impact on Sindh’s educational and literary heritage. This article explores his life, career, and legacy, highlighting his role in promoting Sindhi education and literature in post-partition Pakistan.
Early Life and Background
Born on January 1, 1930, in Mari village, Lakhi Taluka, Sindh, to Haji Ghulam Hussain, Dr. Memon Abdul Majeed grew up in a region steeped in cultural and intellectual traditions. His early life in a rural setting shaped his deep connection to Sindhi language and culture, which he later championed through his work as an educator and writer. His academic journey equipped him with the knowledge and skills to contribute significantly to both education and literature.
Career Beginnings
Dr. Memon began his professional career in the Public Works Department (PWD), where he served briefly before transitioning to the education sector. His shift to academia reflected his passion for learning and his commitment to uplifting Sindhi youth through education. This move marked the beginning of his influential tenure at Islamia College Sukkur, where he became one of only two Sindhi teachers in the institution’s early years.
Role at Islamia College Sukkur
In the mid-1950s, Islamia College Sukkur was established to address the educational crisis in Sukkur following the 1947 partition, which saw the migration of many Hindu educators (Government Islamia College). Dr. Memon Abdul Majeed joined the college as one of its first Sindhi teachers, alongside Sheikh Abdul Razzaq Raaz, in a faculty predominantly composed of Urdu-speaking educators. His role was pivotal in introducing Sindhi language instruction, fostering cultural inclusivity, and ensuring that local students had access to education in their native language.
Dr. Memon’s teaching at the college, which initially offered Arts and Commerce courses, helped lay the foundation for its growth into a leading institution in upper Sindh. His presence as a Sindhi educator was instrumental in preserving and promoting Sindhi linguistic identity during a period of significant social and demographic change (Sukkur History).
Literary Contributions
Beyond his role as an educator, Dr. Memon was a prolific scholar and author. He wrote several books, contributing to Sindhi literature and intellectual discourse. His works, though specific titles are not fully documented in available sources, covered a range of genres, including historical and cultural studies, reflecting his deep knowledge and passion for Sindh’s heritage. His scholarly contributions earned him recognition as a respected figure in Sindhi literary circles.
Later Life and Relocation
In his later years, Dr. Memon relocated to Larkana, where he continued to engage in educational and literary activities. His move to Larkana, a cultural hub of Sindh, allowed him to further his work in promoting Sindhi language and culture. He remained active in intellectual circles until his passing on February 11, 1996.
Legacy
Dr. Memon Abdul Majeed’s legacy endures through his contributions to Islamia College Sukkur and Sindhi literature. As one of the first Sindhi teachers at the college, he played a crucial role in making education accessible and culturally relevant to local students. His scholarly works continue to inspire researchers and writers, while his dedication to Sindhi language and culture strengthened the region’s intellectual heritage. The college, now a prominent institution offering programs from intermediate to postgraduate levels, including BS (Computer Science) (Govt Islamia Science College), owes part of its early success to educators like Dr. Memon.
Challenges in Verification
Due to limited online documentation, some details about Dr. Memon’s life, such as the specific titles of his books or his exact tenure at Islamia College, remain unverified. Researchers may need to consult Sindh Archives in Karachi or the Islamia College Sukkur administration for official records, such as faculty lists or historical documents from the 1950s and 1960s, to substantiate these details.
Seth Mangharam: Industrial Pioneer and Legacy in Sukkur’s History
Introduction
Seth Mangharam, a prominent entrepreneur from Sukkur, played a significant role in the region’s industrial and historical landscape. His abandoned property likely served as the initial site for Islamia College Sukkur, a key educational institution established post-1947 partition. Mangharam’s contributions extended beyond real estate, as he founded Sukkur’s first biscuit factory in 1919, later expanding to a modern facility in Shikarpur and establishing a renowned biscuit brand in Gwalior by 1940. This article explores his life, achievements, and lasting impact on Sukkur and the broader Indian subcontinent.
Early Life and Roots
Seth Mangharam hailed from Piryalo, a village in Sindh, where he developed a keen entrepreneurial spirit. His early life in a region known for its vibrant trade and commerce shaped his ambition to create a lasting business legacy. As a member of the Hindu community in pre-partition Sindh, Mangharam leveraged his business acumen to establish himself as a leading industrialist in Sukkur.
Industrial Ventures in Sukkur
In 1919, Seth Mangharam established Sukkur’s first biscuit factory, marking a pioneering step in the region’s industrial development. This venture introduced locally produced biscuits to the market, meeting the growing demand for packaged foods. Recognizing the potential for expansion, he later set up a modern biscuit factory on Shikarpur Road, which gained widespread acclaim across India for its quality and innovation. The biscuits produced under his brand became a household name, reflecting his ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern production techniques (Sukkur History).
Role in Islamia College Sukkur
Following the 1947 partition, many Hindu families, including Mangharam’s, migrated to India, leaving behind significant properties in Sukkur. One such property, likely owned by Mangharam or another notable figure like Diwan Bhojsingh, was repurposed to house the initial operations of Islamia College Sukkur near Ghazi Rashid Park (Government Islamia College). Established around 1955–1956 to address the educational crisis caused by the exodus of Hindu educators, the college utilized this building to conduct its early classes in Arts and Commerce. Mangharam’s indirect contribution through his property laid the groundwork for an institution that remains a cornerstone of higher education in upper Sindh.
Expansion to Gwalior
In 1940, Seth Mangharam expanded his biscuit empire to Gwalior, India, establishing a new factory that further solidified his reputation as a leading industrialist. This venture evolved into the Britannia brand, which remains one of India’s most iconic biscuit manufacturers (Britannia Industries). Today, the company is reportedly owned by a descendant of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s Parsi grandson, highlighting the enduring legacy of Mangharam’s entrepreneurial vision.
Legacy
Seth Mangharam’s contributions to Sukkur and beyond are multifaceted. His biscuit factories in Sukkur and Gwalior revolutionized the food industry, introducing high-quality products that gained widespread popularity. The use of his abandoned property for Islamia College Sukkur underscores his indirect role in supporting education during a critical period in Sindh’s history. His journey from Piryalo to becoming a pioneer of the biscuit industry reflects the resilience and innovation of Sindh’s pre-partition Hindu community.
Challenges in Verification
While Mangharam’s contributions are significant, limited online documentation poses challenges in verifying specific details, such as the exact location of his Sukkur property or its direct link to Islamia College. Researchers may need to consult Sindh Archives in Karachi or local records in Sukkur for property deeds, municipal documents, or historical accounts from the 1950s to confirm these connections.
Diwan Bhojsingh: A Legal Luminary and Civic Leader of Sukkur
Introduction
Diwan Bhojsingh, a distinguished lawyer and civic leader, left an indelible mark on Sukkur’s history through his contributions to law, governance, and education. His abandoned property is believed to have possibly served as the initial site for Islamia College Sukkur, a pivotal institution established post-1947 partition. Hailing from Sehwan, Bhojsingh’s journey from a teacher to a prominent advocate and civic figure exemplifies his dedication to public service. This article explores his life, achievements, and lasting legacy in Sukkur and Sindh.
Early Life and Background
Born in Sehwan, Sindh, Diwan Bhojsingh grew up in a region known for its rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Initially, he pursued a career as a teacher, demonstrating his commitment to education. His passion for justice and public service led him to transition into the legal profession, where he quickly established himself as one of Sukkur’s most respected advocates. His roots in Sehwan and his professional ascent in Sukkur reflect the adaptability and ambition of Sindh’s pre-partition Hindu community.
Legal and Civic Career
Diwan Bhojsingh’s legal career flourished in Sukkur, where he gained prominence as a skilled lawyer. His expertise and reputation made him a trusted figure in the community, contributing to his involvement in civic governance. He served as the President of Sukkur Municipality during two terms: from 1911 to 1914 and again from 1922 to 1928. His leadership in municipal affairs helped shape Sukkur’s urban development during a period of significant growth.
In 1936, when Sindh was separated from the Bombay Presidency, Bhojsingh was elected as the first Speaker of the Sindh Legislative Assembly, a historic milestone that underscored his influence in provincial politics (Sukkur History). His role as Speaker highlighted his ability to navigate complex political landscapes during a transformative era in Sindh’s history.
Contribution to Islamia College Sukkur
Following the 1947 partition, the migration of Hindu families, including Bhojsingh’s, left behind significant properties in Sukkur. One such property, possibly owned by Bhojsingh or Seth Mangharam, is believed to have been repurposed near Ghazi Rashid Park to house the initial classes of Islamia College Sukkur (Government Islamia College). Established around 1955–1956 to address the educational crisis caused by the exodus of Hindu educators, the college relied on such buildings to commence operations, offering Arts and Commerce courses. Bhojsingh’s indirect contribution through his property played a crucial role in supporting Sukkur’s educational recovery post-partition.
Leadership in Cultural Institutions
Beyond his legal and political roles, Diwan Bhojsingh was deeply involved in Sukkur’s cultural and intellectual life. He served as the Chairman of the Ancient General Library in Sukkur, a key institution that preserved knowledge and fostered learning in the region. His leadership in the library reflects his commitment to promoting education and cultural heritage, aligning with his earlier career as a teacher and his later contributions to civic institutions.
Legacy
Diwan Bhojsingh’s multifaceted contributions as a lawyer, civic leader, and cultural patron have left a lasting legacy in Sukkur. His role as the first Speaker of the Sindh Legislative Assembly marked a historic achievement, while his presidency of the Sukkur Municipality shaped the city’s early 20th-century development. The potential use of his property for Islamia College Sukkur underscores his indirect impact on education, supporting an institution that remains a cornerstone of higher education in upper Sindh (Govt Islamia Science College). Bhojsingh’s journey from Sehwan to Sukkur exemplifies the resilience and influence of Sindh’s pre-partition Hindu community.
Challenges in Verification
Limited online documentation poses challenges in confirming specific details, such as the exact location of Bhojsingh’s property or its definitive use by Islamia College. Researchers may need to consult Sindh Archives in Karachi, Sukkur municipal records, or historical documents from the 1950s to verify these connections. Local oral histories or family records in Sukkur could also provide additional insights.
Leadership and Faculty
The college has been guided by a series of dedicated leaders. Nusrat Hassan was succeeded by Zaheer Ahmed and later Mirza Fazal Hussain as chairmen of the College Board. In 1961, Daud Pota served as principal, overseeing the transition to the new campus. Today, the Science College is led by Principal Ali Haider Qazi, a respected educator from Rohri.
Academic Growth and Program Expansion
The college expanded its academic offerings over the years. Postgraduate classes in Urdu, Sindhi, and Muslim History began in 1965, followed by English, Economics, and Science degree courses in 1967. In 1973, the college was reorganized and renamed Islamia Arts and Science College, with separate administrations for its Arts and Science faculties. Modern programs, such as BS (Computer Science), reflect its continued evolution.
Student Life and Cultural Contributions
Student life at Islamia College Sukkur has been vibrant, with active participation in union elections, sports, debating competitions, and cultural events like mushairas and Shah Latif Day, featuring performances by renowned Sindhi artists.
Infrastructure Development and Challenges
The college's permanent campus is located on Minara Road, at the cross-section of New Sukkur and Old Sukkur, occupying a prominent hill. The campus is surrounded by significant landmarks, including the PAF Selection and Recruitment Centre, Masoom Shah Library, and the D.C. Office. The building features six laboratories (two each for Chemistry and Physics, and one each for Zoology and Botany), staff common rooms, an auditorium, a gymnasium, and a mosque. The college shares its building with Government Islamia Arts/Commerce College and the Post Graduate Studies Centre, with science classes held in the morning and arts/commerce classes in the evening.
Despite its strategic location, the college has faced challenges with land encroachments on parts of its hillock plot, limiting space for expansion. The initial construction budget of 26 lakhs facilitated the development of essential facilities like classrooms, administrative offices, and a library. Over time, the college has invested in upgrading its infrastructure, including the establishment of science laboratories and the expansion of the library. However, maintaining the aging campus and resolving encroachment issues continue to require ongoing advocacy and government intervention.
Modern-Day Islamia College Sukkur
Today, Islamia College Sukkur remains a cornerstone of higher education in the region, serving thousands of students across its Science and Arts faculties. The Science College operates in the morning under the leadership of Principal Ali Haider Qazi, while the Arts College holds evening classes to accommodate diverse student schedules. The college is part of a region that values educational excellence, as demonstrated by the achievements of the Directorate of School Education in Sukkur.
Offering programs from intermediate to postgraduate levels, the college emphasizes affordability and accessibility. Its alumni include notable figures such as Syed Khurshid Shah, a prominent Pakistani politician who served as the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, underscoring the college's enduring impact on Sindh’s intellectual and cultural spheres. The institution continues to uphold its founding mission of delivering quality education while honoring its rich cultural heritage.
Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi
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