On Sir Syed Day, Qaid-e-Urdu Shamim Ahmed calls for educational advancement, scientific thinking, social reform and communal harmony, inspired by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s enduring legacy.
Qalam Times News Network
Kolkata, October 17, 2026
Kolkata: On the occasion of Sir Syed Day, Shamim Ahmed, widely known as Qaid-e-Urdu (Leader of Urdu), has called upon the Muslim community to renew its commitment to education, scientific thinking, social reform and constitutional values, describing Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s legacy as a guiding light for future generations.
In his message on Sir Syed Day, Shamim Ahmed emphasised that Sir Syed’s vision went far beyond establishing an educational institution. It represented a movement to overcome despair through knowledge, encourage rational thought and prepare society to meet changing challenges with confidence and determination.
Education and Enlightenment: The Continuing Relevance of Sir Syed’s Vision
Shamim Ahmed said that Sir Syed’s message remains particularly significant at a time when educational inequality, social discrimination and communal polarisation continue to concern many sections of Indian society. He stressed that quality education, equal opportunities for girls and boys, scientific awareness and respect for constitutional rights must remain central to community development.
He further urged young people to pursue modern education, develop professional skills, embrace technological advancement and uphold the values of mutual respect and national harmony. According to him, meaningful progress depends not on rhetoric alone, but on strong educational institutions, responsible leadership and sustained collective effort.
Paying tribute to Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, Shamim Ahmed said his life demonstrated how courage, intellectual openness and a commitment to reform could transform adversity into an opportunity for progress. He called for renewed efforts to advance education, strengthen social cohesion and preserve India’s pluralistic traditions.
He concluded by saying that the most fitting tribute to Sir Syed would be to carry forward his mission through knowledge, character-building and service to humanity.
