What begins as a project grows into our mission. With the same guiding principle, Miles2Smile inaugurated its new learning center, Sayyidah Nafisa Center of Learning – The Hope School, as part of our ongoing Taleem project. This marks the 11th such center of Miles2Smile. The Sayyidah Nafisa Center of Learning- The Hope School, established to equip madrassa students with technical knowledge and digital skills. The inauguration event was attended by Chief Guest Amjad Khan, industrialist and entrepreneur from Khargone, MP; Guest of Honor Dr. Gauhar Azad, physician; along with Aasif Mujtaba, Founder and CEO of Miles2Smile; more than 80 students; teachers; and the organization’s team.
Sayyidah Nafisa, after whom the center is named, was a noblewoman and scholar from the family of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), born in Mecca in 762 CE. Known for her piety, wisdom, and generosity, she later settled in Egypt, where she became a spiritual guide to many, including Imam al-Shafi’i. By dedicating this center in her name, the organisation aspires for the students to draw inspiration from her legacy of devotion, knowledge, and service.
The center is fully equipped with modern computer systems, internet access, and trained instructors, offering free digital literacy and essential computer training to madrassa students. This initiative seeks to create opportunities for academic growth, vocational training, and future employability, complementing their traditional education with the skills necessary to thrive in today’s world.
The primary beneficiaries of this center are the students of our Kalan Mahal Learning Center, many of whom suffered immense hardships after their former institute, Bahrul Uloom in Mehrauli, was demolished by the DDA without prior notice. Students from Madarsa Tazkirat Ul Uloom (Neem Wali Masjid), Madarsa Qasim Ul Uloom, Madarsa Ahsan Ul Uloom, and other madrassas in Mehrauli will also benefit from this program.
Madrassa students are among the most eager and capable learners, yet often lack access to digital resources and modern education. While madrassas provide moral and religious education, they are rarely equipped to impart technical knowledge. With this initiative, Miles2Smile aims to bridge that gap, enabling students to keep pace with their peers in mainstream education and the job market, without losing touch with their cultural and educational roots.
The program commenced with a recitation from the Qur’an by Mohd. Muzammil, establishing a spiritual ambiance for the event. Following the recitation, a felicitation ceremony was held in which the Chief Guest and Guests of Honour were presented with shawls and mementos as a token of appreciation.
This was followed by remarks from Aasif Mujtaba, who recalled the early days of the Taleem project. He spoke of how madrassa students, despite their sharp intellect and passion, often lack guidance and opportunity. Remembering the initial days of Miles2Smile’s project Taleem, Mujtaba said, “Three years ago, we started working on the Taleem Project. We opened the Hunar skills center, and then we realized that madrassa students are some of the sharpest, they too deserve a chance to move forward.”
“There’s no one sharper than madrassa students, they have passion, they’re intelligent, they have talent. The only thing they lack is guidance, and this learning center will provide that guidance.” Mujtaba added, boosting the morale of the students sitting as an audience.
Realizing his message had struck a chord, Mujtaba went on to speak further, “Even if coal isn’t polished, it’s still a diamond — just without its shine. Similarly, you already have the potential; what’s missing is guidance. And we’ve brought that guidance in the form of this learning center. This center will connect you with technology and take you forward.
Dr. Gauhar emphasized the need for the younger generation to move forward rapidly in a world advancing quickly with technology, stressing the importance of staying updated “We have done our part — now it’s your generation’s turn. You need to move ahead quickly because the world is advancing rapidly. Technology is progressing fast and is becoming an essential part of every field. Staying updated is no longer a choice, it’s a necessity.” he said.
Amjad Khan, drawing from his own life journey, shared how he rose from a poor background, working as a cart puller and bakery worker, to eventually become a successful industrialist employing hundreds. His story deeply inspired the students.
The program concluded with words from Muzzamil Sulemani, Head Teacher of the Kalan Mahal Learning Center, who reminded the students that true change will come from their own dedication and hard work. “Small efforts from us won’t bring much change; real change will come from you all — from your studies and perseverance. So move forward, study, and learn,” he said, leaving the students motivated and hopeful.
About Miles2Smile: Established nearly five years ago, the Miles2Smile Foundation is dedicated to making a positive impact on marginalized communities in India. From the crisis response during the pandemic to ongoing efforts in education and advocacy, the foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
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Other Glimpses of the event:
