The city of Surat, famous for its diamonds and textiles, is also home to an intriguing yet lesser-known gem. It is a centuries-old educational hub for the Dawoodi Bohra community, a thread of history that is woven into the past, present and future of this enterprising community.
The seeds of this educational legacy in Surat were sown by the 43rd Dai, or leader, of the community Syedna Abdeali Saifuddin, who transformed the city into a beacon of knowledge for the Dawoodi Bohras. Inspired by the Islamic tradition of seeking knowledge, in 1810, Syedna established an institution in Surat which included facilities for teaching, student residences and a Masjid. "Syedna particularly placed this institution, known as Darse Saifee, adjacent to his residence to signify the deep value and respect he gave to education," said Abdeali Manmadwala, a senior lecturer at Aljameatus Saifiyah. He added that this model of imparting education while providing free boarding to students "is a reflection of Al-Azhar University in Cairo which was established in 975"
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