The King has paid tribute to the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies, celebrating four decades of the institution’s commitment to scholarship, dialogue, and global understanding.
Speaking at a ceremony held to mark the Centre’s 40th anniversary, The King described the milestone as a moment of “enormous pride and admiration,” praising the Centre’s unwavering efforts to broaden understanding of the Islamic World in the United Kingdom.
Reflecting on the Centre’s origins in 1985, The King noted its transformation from “a modest hut on St Cross Road” into a world-renowned institution, now housed in purpose-built surroundings. He commended its role in hosting distinguished speakers, creating educational opportunities for young and old, and building lasting international friendships.
“The Centre’s ongoing commitment to objective scholarship and international cooperation, underpinned by principles of dialogue, deep understanding and mutual respect, is more imperative than ever in today’s world,” he said. “I am extremely heartened that the Centre continues to play such a significant role in that globally critical endeavour.”
His Majesty also spoke fondly of the Centre’s founding director, Dr Farhan Nizami, acknowledging his vision, dedication, and leadership in shaping the institution over the past four decades.
“To Dr Nizami… I can only thank you – along with so many of the illustrious group gathered here today – for your tireless dedication and unswerving vision, which have shaped this Centre into the beacon of Islamic scholarship that it is today,” he said.
Looking ahead, The King expressed optimism for the Centre’s future, saying he looked forward to “the next chapter of the Centre’s story – building upon what it has already achieved with the same enduring values that have fortified the institution thus far.”
The King, who has long served as Patron of the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies, concluded his remarks by emphasising the personal significance of the moment. “It means more to me than you can imagine to be sharing this stage with you once again… and to join in the celebrations as a particularly proud patron.”
