Fatima Al-Fihri, Morocco
Founder of world’s oldest university
In the Moroccan city of Fez, you will find the famous Al-Qarawiyyin university. It was founded by Fatima Al Fihri, a visionary woman, who upon the death of her father, invested the wealth she inherited in founding a mosque and educational institution for the benefit of her local community. Students from all over the world travelled to study a wide range of subjects, ranging from natural sciences to languages to astronomy, and Fatima herself studied there too. During the medieval times, the University was considered a major intellectual centre. it is recognized as the oldest existing university in the world.
The University of al-Qarawiyyin is still in operation today, and amid its other attractions, houses one of the world’s oldest libraries. The library contains over 4000 manuscripts, including the famous historian Ibn Khaldun’s 14th-century text Muqaddimah. The library recently underwent refurbishment, pioneered by female architect Aziza Chaouni, who worked to renovate the library and give it a face-lift.
Fatima’s foresight and commitment, alongside her selfless contribution towards championing intellectual advancement, led to the establishment of a monumental university. The remarkable legacy of her dedication and empowering endeavour is well-deserved and one that is a source of inspiration for all.
The library of al-Qarawiyyin is now open to the public and, amongst other treasures, exhibits Fatima al-Fihri’s original diploma – on a wooden board!
In 2017, a prize was created in Tunisia in her honor. It rewards initiatives which encourage access to training and professional responsibilities for women. Furthermore, an academic program and a scholarship given to students from Europe and North Africa pay tribute to Fatima Al-Fihri.
1. https://manchesteruniversitypress.co.uk/blog/2018/03/08/fatima-al-fihri-founder-worlds-first-university/
2. Wikipedia
photo source :Source – https://muslim-worldview.com/fatima-al-fihri/
video link:Al Jazeera – Morocco revamps world’s oldest university
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fsbBC1dgUbo
video link:Safiyyah Sabreen Syeed – Fatima al Fihri- The woman behind Modern University education
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3urOM6V2nMw