TERM 1991-1994

Report on India visit by the Vice President of WF Alhaj Manzoorali Kanani

At the Triennial Conference of the World Federation held in October 1991, a resolution to Eradicate Poverty in Gujarat was unanimously adopted. In December 1991, the President of the World Federation, Al Haj Mulla Asgar M.M. Jaffer toured India, including Gujarat extensively. During his visit, Mulla Saheb assessed and appraised the situation in Gujarat. The President held discussion with the Office Bearers and Councillors of the Council of Gujarat to review the activities and to discuss the future plans in the light of the World Federation Conference Resolution on Eradication of Poverty in Gujarat. It was agreed that the first 18 months, the World Federation, in collaboration with generous donors from all over the world, should concentrate on the housing needs of our people in Gujarat.

At the instructions of the President, the Vice President, Alhaj Manzoorali Kanani visited Gujarat in February 1992 to gather firsthand information. He was accompanied by Al Haj Gulamabbas Khimji of Nairobi. The details are as follows:

Bhavnagar

The Vice President had a very fruitful meeting with the members of the Managing Committee of Bhavnagar- President of Bhavnagar Jamaat Alhaj Ramzanbhai Asaria , Mr. Aunali Salemohamed, the Executive Councillor of World Federation and Alhaj Sajjad Varteji, Honorary Secretary of Bhavnagar Jamaat and other members of the Managing Committee.

He was informed that the plans were finalized to reconstruct Imambara and Madressa Building popularly known as Janab’s House. The reconstruction work is expected to cost in the tune of five million Rupees and will commence as soon as funds are available. The President of Bhavnagar Jamaat Alhaj Ramzanbhai Asaria has appealed to World Federation for funds and has submitted full plans to World Federation.

Alhaj Manzoorali Kanani also visited the office of the Adarsh Co-operative Credit Society Limited which has been recently revived under the Chairmanship of Alhaj Ramzanbhai Asaria. The Co-operative Society plays a very important role to provide financial assistance for economic upliftment. Recently they provided loans to thirty youths to purchase Rickshaws at the cost of Rs.40, 000 per Rickshaws. NASIMCO has provided funds to purchase 5 Rickshaws. Still 30 applications for Rickshaws are pending due to funds shortage. It is encouraging to note that repayment so far have been 100% without any defaulters or bad debts.

The Vice President also visited the proposed sight of the Housing Scheme of forty flats in Bhavnagar. The land had already been purchased by Bhavnagar Jamaat with the assistance of donors. The foundation stone for the Housing Scheme was laid by the President of the WF Mulla Asgar (Asghar Ali M.M Jaffer) during his last visit to India.

The Vice President addressed the meeting of the Businessmen in Bhavnagar which was originally organized by the Interim Chairman of JIBA , Alhaj Anver Rajpar and appealed to the Business Community to join hands with the WF and play important role to eradicate poverty in Gujarat. The Vice President then visited Haji Naji Boarding House in Bhavnagar which was formally opened by the President of the WF Mulla Asgar (Asghar Ali M.M Jaffer) during his last visit to India. He was informed that it cost Rs. 25000 only to sponsor one child for life time. The Vice President was very much impressed by the activities of Haji Naji Memorial Trust.

The Delegation then visited the Huseini Education and Welfare Society Trust run by dedicated honorary workers of the Jamaat. The present premises are completely run down and it is necessary to have an independent building for the increasing activities. They have over four hundred students under Zainabiya Child Sponsorship Scheme of the World Federation. The Society is doing commendable work

Talaja

Housing Scheme of thirty six flats is in progress in Talaja. The President of Talaja Jamaat Mr. Amirbhai Bhurani as well as Mr. Gulamabbas bhai Bhurani are taking very keen interest in this project. The Foundation Stone of this Housing Project was laid by the President of WF during his last visit to India.

Mahuva

Under the Chairmanship of Alhaj Aliraza Nanji of Nairobi, the programme of Samuh Lagna for 48 couples took place. Each bride was given the present of seven thousand rupees.

In Mahuva, a full fledged meeting of the Council of Gujarat was convened under the Chairmanship of Alhaj Umedali Merchant (Bhanabhai) to review the activities and to discuss future plans. The Vice President informed the meeting that it was the desire of the World Federation to see that all its activities in Gujarat are channeled through the Council of Gujarat.

The Honorary Secretary of the Council of Gujarat, Haji Hassanalibhai J. Merchant gave an elaborate report on all the activities of the Council of Gujarat. He pointed out that a drought situation was prevailing once again in Gujarat affecting the villages and small towns. Alhaj Umedali Merchant (Bhanabhai) informed the Vice President that so far not a single rupee has been received by the Council of Gujarat from the amount pledged by the donors at the last Conference of WF. The Vice President was very much impressed and satisfied with the activities of the Council of Gujarat.

Rajula

The Delegation visited the Housing Scheme successfully completed, financed by Haji Mohamed Jaffer Suleman Khaku and known as Suleman Khaku Park consisting of twelve flats of two rooms each. The opening ceremony of these flats was performed by the President of World Federation Alhaj Mulla Asgar (Asghar Ali M.M Jaffer) during his last visit to India.

Jamnagar

The Jamaats Management informed the delegation that the existing Imambara was inadequate due to the ever increasing population. The plans for the extension were passed and the extension is expected to cost Rs. 350,000. They have Rs. 150,000 and appealed for balance Rs. 200,000 for this project. A boundary wall at the Kabrastan is also required which will cost Rs. 150,000. Jamnagar has one of the oldest Boarding House which is closed as it needs facelift. The Vice President in consultation with Office Bearers of Council of Gujarat appointed Alhaj Ramzanbhai Asaria, the President of Bhavnagar Jamaat, to look into the matter and have the Boarding House operational.

KSI Medical and Welfare Society

Haji Shaukatali Sultanali Mewawala Mewawala and his team of workers are doing a commendable work in the fields of Education, Medical Care and Housing for both Sadats and non Sadats thru KSI Medical and Welfare Society, Bombay.

220 students between the ages of 5-16 years is getting education from the Society. It has treated over 500 T.B. patients. In the outskirts of Bombay and Mumbra they provided 55 flats to our needy Momineen (first Phase). In the second phase the Society provided 32 flats to Momineen and in the third phase 24 flats were provided. The fourth phase of 50 flats is under construction. The Society has a shortfall of two million rupees for the fourth phase. The Vice President was indeed very much impressed with these projects.

Govandi (Bombay)

Dr. G. D. Moledina, a representative of Al Safeena Trust, Alhaj Gulamabbas Khimji of Nairobi and the Vice President of WF, Mr. Manzoorali Kanani visited Al Safeena Education Centre where a Balwadi (Kindergarten and Nursery School) is run very effectively and efficiently. The Balwadi has nearly 75 children. They also visited clinic which also provided Primary Health Care Programme.

Jamaats in Republic of Yemen

On the request of WF (Alhaj Mulla Asgar (Asghar Ali M.M Jaffer), the following report was submitted by Ashakhusein M. Rashid on our Jamaats in Aden, Mukalla, Hodeida and Sana’a, Republic of Yemen:

Aden

It’s a well-organized Jamaat managed by a Managing Committee of 9 persons elected in a General Body Meeting held every 2 years. There is a nice Masjid with Imambara facility for Ladies and Gents. Majalis are held every Thursday and on every occasion of Wafats and Wiladat of the Ahlul-Bait a.s. The resident Aalim is Maulana Miraz Taqi who resides Majalis, teaches Masael and Diniyat etc. Madressa-E-Jaffery is another sister institution with a separate Managing Committee but functioning in co-operation with the Jamaat. There are 105 houses with the total of 470 persons.

Mukalla

There are 17 houses and total of 64 persons. It used to be a big Jamaat but people moved to Aden & other places. The Complex has an old Mosque, Imambara and a School building which remains close. At present there is no Aalim and the Mosque remains closed but Azan is heard coming out of Mosque. People are praying in other Sunni Mosque where there is lot of Wahabi influence and getting carried away. There is a pressure from the Sunnis that the Mosque should be handed over to them as our brothers are not using it. Also there is a old feud there and the person controlling the keys to the Mosque is everything as far as the management is concerned. If urgent steps are not taken, we shall lose all the property there.

Hodeida

There are 27 houses with total of 121 persons. There is no Mosque or Imambara due to political reasons, but Majaalis are held in houses. They are lucky to have Alhaj Mahmood bhai Yusuf Abdalla who resides Majaalis and leads Friday and Idd prayers

Sanaa

It’s the Capital of Yemen with 12 houses and 66 persons. Here Majaalis are held occasionally and in Mohharam in the houses.

Propose Widow Residence in France

The situation of some of our widows in France is worrying due to loneliness, solitude, their Domicile far away from Paris area etc. etc. The Management Committee of Mehfil e Zainab, France has a “Solidarity Plan” towards these people.

This Plan consists of finding an “Accommodation” very near to “Mehfil” so that they can take part in all our community and religious activities as Mahe Ramzan, Mohharam and other festivities and get away from Moroseness of their hard situation.

Hence generous donation is sought from all for the project to come to reality.

International Rehabilitation Board

Report - 18th. September 1993

At the Triennial Conference of the World Federation held in October 1991 the need to establish a Board to assist and facilitate in the movement of our Community Members owing to economic, political and cultural factors was recognized. Accordingly the Executive Council resolved to establish the International Rehabilitation Board.

The following report was presented by the International Rehabilitation Board at the Executive Council Meeting on 18th. September 1993. The President of WF Alhaj Mulla Asgar (Asghar Ali M.M Jaffer) appointed Alhaj Manzoorali Kanani as Chairman of the Board. As a priority, the President directed the Board to work in close collaboration with the Setwell Board of the Africa Federation and assist in every possible manner to resettle our displace brothers from Somalia.

Some of the activities undertaken by the Board, in collaboration with the Setwell Board are highlighted below:

1. Each and every displaced family from Somalia residing in Nairobi and Mombasa were interviewed and assisted in settling in various towns in Tanzania.
2. The Chairman of the Board travelled to Moshi and Arusha on two occasions accompanied by the Chairman and Members of the Setwell Board. They visited all the families settled there.
3. In conjunction with Alhaj Aliraza Rajani, the President of Dar es Salaam Jamaat, ten families were identified and their details forwarded to the World Federation to take up the offer by Nasimco for settlement in Canada.
4. Financial and travel arrangements to the tune of USD 1400 for Mr. Nazar Hussein Okera, his wife and two children originally from Somalia, to travel to Sweden and join his brother who was already there were made during June 1993.
5. Financial assistance and facilitation of acquisition of five shops, at the rate of USD 5000 per shop, which was built by the Moshi Jamaat, for our displaced brothers from Somalia was made. Plans for a sixth shop were also in the advanced stage. The Chairman of Africa Federation, Alhaj Habib Mulji had pledged to provide adequate funds for the stock to these Brothers.
6. Perusal of various loan applications from displaced Brothers from Somalia to start their own business is being done on a regular basis. A sum of USD 5000 was advance to Mr. Razahussein Ahmed Haji Ali Muraj residing in Mombasa to start a transport business.

The Zainabiya Trust, Karachi, has played an important role in assisting our displaced Brothers from Somalia and is still assisting about 19 families on monthly basis. However due to their financial constraints, the Trust got in touch with both the Setwell Board and the Africa Federation expressing their concern and reducing the subsidy. The President of the World Federation assessed the plight of these displaced families from Somalia and sent Pakistani Rupees Three Hundred Thousand for one year.

Report - 30 April 1994

Report of the International Rehabilitation Board (IRB) presented to the meeting of the Executive Council on 30th. April 1994 at London:

It is covered in two parts.

Section One:

1. Ten families from Somalia who have been identified for settlement in Canada under the offer by NASIMCO are still being followed by Setwell Board.
2. Six shops in Moshi have been acquired for our displaced brothers from Somalia.
3. Word is being awaited from the World Federation in respect of their position for contribution of 50% of the cost of purchasing a building in Arusha which is presently being used by our displaced brothers from Somalia.

Section Two:

1. Financial and travel arrangements have been provided for two families comprising a total of ten numbers to travel from Nairobi to Europe for settlement. Both these families were originally from Somalia.
2. A business loan of USD 7500 has been forwarded to a family in Nairobi to start a motor vehicles spare parts business. This family is also one of our displaced brothers from Somalia.
3. The Vice President of the World Federation and Chairman of the IRD, Haji Manzoorali Kanani participated in the 52nd. Session of the KSIS Council meeting at Arusha. He briefed the participants of the role which the World Federation had played and cleared the misconception in respect of allegations made by one of the invitees that the contribution of the World Federation in this respect was minimal.
4. Br. Gulamhussein Mukhtar of Arusha managed to meet HE President Hassan Mwinyi of Tanzania and managed to get a letter from the office of the President directing the Immigration authorities in that country to allow the Pakistani and Somali nationals to remain in Tanzania and conduct their business until the situation in Somalia improves.
5. At the time of writing this report, plans were at an advanced stage to repatriate a family of four to Europe.
6. The IRB in conjunction with the Golden Crescent Group of Nairobi organized a lecture by Mr. James Egan, a specialist in Canadian Immigration law for the benefit of our community members in Nairobi who are thinking of migrating to Canada. This function was well attended and was also very informative.

Iran Visit by President Mulla Asghar

The President, Al Haj Mulla Asgar(Asghar Ali M. M Jaffer) visited Iran for Ziarat and to see how the amount sent for Iraqi Refugees was being utilized. More than 350000 Pound Sterling had been sent from U.K. It was gratifying to learn that the contribution from the World Federation formed a substantial part of the help received by the Iraqi Refugees in Iran.

He met the Maraje and Ulema in Iran and briefed them on the activities of the World Federation.

He also met the Khoja students studying in Qum. There are 22 boys and girls studying in Hauza of Qum and that at least two students who were presently pursuing Darse Kharij. There were about four girls in Jameatuz Zahra, Qum.

He said that the cost of living in Iran had shot up considerably and the students were facing problems particularly in regards to accommodation. He emphasized on the necessity of purchasing a house for our students wishing to study in Qum. A House in Qum would cost 10000 and adjoining building was also available for the same price and the World Federation is presently in negotiation for both.

Foundation Fund

Despite the pledges of more than 134,000 Pounds at the Conference in October, 1991, only 20,000 had so far been received. The deficit at the Secretariat had increased to 171,000 Pounds. The President Mulla Asgar appealed to members to fulfill their promises and pay out the money soonest to offset the deficit.

Somalia Resettlement

During the Executive Council Meeting of WF, the President of Dar as Salaam Jamaat and a member of the Setwell Board of the Africa Federation, Haji Aliraza Rajani reported on the resettlement of Somali Refugees in Tanzania.

He stated that around that so far 375 Somalia Refugees were settled in various towns of Tanzania and 370 people have settled in other countries such as Kenya, Uganda, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.

Dr. Ahmed Hassam stated that the Canadian Government allowed a family to settle in Canada if sponsored by five people with a guarantee of Canadian dollar 25,000. Only 2 groups had sponsored two families from Somalia. The question of guarantee seemed to dissuade people from coming forward so sponsor.

Nasimco had organized a special meeting to raise funds for Somali Refugees where pledges totaling Canadian $ 280,000 were made.

Jaffer Dharamsi stated that a report of his last visit to Somalia appeared in local paper and as a result some non-Muslims contributed funds for the Somali Refugees. The amount had been sent to 'Setwell' through the World Federation.

Islamic Education Board (IEB)

Report - 18th. September 1993

1. Al Madrasah: The Islamic Education Board has published the fourth issue of "Al Madrasah" – the quarterly Newsletter for Madrassah Teachers. It is being sent to all teachers of Madressa and any individual or organization who requests it. The response is growing but regret that despite appeals some of the larger Madressa have chosen to ignore it. The requests for details such as address and number of teachers have also been not replied to. Also request have been made to Councillors to ask their respective Madressa to get their teaching methods and Aids more widely known through this Newsletter.
2. Girl's Islamic Camp: The Annual Girl’s Islamic Camp was organized at Zainabiya Islamic Centre, Milton Keynes from 22nd to 29th August 1993. The Camp activities were conducted by Mrs. Shamim Muslim Bhanji from Dodoma, Tanzania.
3. Quran Awareness: To bring more awareness about Quran in the Community the Board has declared this year 1414 A.H. as Quran Awareness year. Councillors are requested to pursue the matter and ensure that respective Madressa and Jamaats organize Quran Awareness programmes throughout the year.
4. Arabic Language: Every year, the Muslim Institute of London organizes an intensive Arabic Language Course during summer. This year, the Islamic Education Board (I.E.B.) sponsored 11 students (including one Malaysian Shia and Two Bosnian Muslim Ladies) to undertake the Course. The Course was from 5th July to 27th August 1993. The I.E.B. of NASIMCO sent four Students to join the course. The cost of their fees, transport and accommodation was borne by the World Federation. Ten more students from our Community in London joined the Course on their own. The I.E.B. arranged for additional coaching for all of them, to supplement the teachings they were having at the Muslim Institute. The Board is grateful to Brother Mustafa Jaffer (M.Sc. in Arabic) for coaching the students. It is proposed to arrange for a follow up course for these students to enable them to be more proficient in Arabic. In co-operation with the Dar es Salam Jamaat, an Arabic Teacher was sent to Dar es Salam where she conducted an intensive three and half week course in Arabic Language. The cost was borne by Dar Jamaat.
5. Guyana (South America): Many Africans in Guyana have accepted Shia faith. Three centers of Shias have been established for Tabligh in three different areas of Guyana. Six students have been selected to study in a Hauza but financial assistance is required for their Airfare. WF has been requested for assistance to meet the air-fare of USD.6000.
6. Russia: A detailed report on the visit of the Chairman of the Islamic Education Board, Muhsin Jaffer to Russia was issued on 11th. August 1993. There are more than 200,000 Shias in Tatarstan Republic of Russia. They have no knowledge of their faith apart from the fact that they are Shia Muslims. There is a need for urgent action to protect, strengthen and spread further the Shia Islamic Faith in Russia. The head of the Community of Shias in Tatarstan visited London and had a meeting with the Office Bearers of the World Federation. From the report received from him, an Office for Tabligh has already been established and work on construction of a Mosque and Imambada Complex in Kazan (Capital of Tatarstan) has already started.
7. Malaysia: A book in Malaysian Language "Konsep Imamah dan Khilafah Serta Implikasinya memurut Ahlu’s Sunnah Wa’l Jama’ah" has already been published. Two more books for publication are in pipeline. A Malaysian Shia – a graduate of British University – has shown interest in joining Hauza to be an Aalim.

Report - Presented at Triennial Conference October 1994

The Islamic Education Board (IEB) is now called upon to perform multifarious services. The requests come from not only the members but from nonmembers from all over the world.

The IEB serves by:

1. Helping Madressa
2. Helping organize Seminars
3. Helping find suitable Aalim or Zakirs
4. Publishing and distributing books
5. Distributing books to Libraries and individuals, free of cost
6. Producing and distributing Audio Cassettes
7. Answering Queries of matters of Sharia or Secular/Educational problems
8. Conveying the message of Prophet Mohammad saw. And his Ahlul Bait a.s. to non-Shias and non-Muslims
9. Helping in the teaching of Quran and the Arabic Language
10. Encouraging youths to take more interest in Islam
11. Encouraging Organizations and individual in Tabligh activities

Report of IEB for the Term 1991-1994

1. Madressas Syllabus:
   1. The Syllabus is presented by Khoja Shia Ithna Asheri Jamaats of Africa and is adopted, with slight modification, by the World Federation at the 1991 Conference and was circulated to all members.
   2. Almost all the Madressas has felt the need to revise it or prepare their own syllabus but without any consultation with the I.E.B. or with each other. A Seminar is needed to discuss this with the co-operation of all Madressas.
   3. I.E.B. has been actively cooperating with the National Muslim Organizations in the preparation of the syllabus, Glossary of the Islamic Terminologies, presenting Muslim point of view on the curriculum, etc.
   4. Representative of the I.E.B. visits Schools in the U.K. and organize meetings to explain Islam to Students and Teachers. School children visit the Islamic Centre in Stanmore on regular basis and I.E.B. representative explain Islam to them and distribute Islamic literature.
   5. I.E.B. is also active in local and national Interfaith Network.
   6. They provide literature on Islam and attend to queries from Priests of various faiths.
2. Al Madrasah:
   1. Launched in July 1992, Muharram 1413, five Issues of this Newsletter is published. The purpose of Al Madrasah was to provide a forum to Madressa teachers to exchange views, share experience and discuss about course material, teaching techniques and assessment methods. Regrettably there was no contribution from the teachers. Some Jamaats and Madrasah did not even distribute the Newsletter to their teachers.
3. Textbooks:
   1. The I.E.B. is trying to produce three- all inclusive Textbooks on teaching of Quran, Diniyat (Aqaed, History and Fiqh) and Akhlaq. The draft has been circulated for comments and suggestions.
4. Audio Cassettes:
   1. I.E.B. has produced special Cassettes as teaching aids to help children improve their recitation. There is also a series of cassettes for children to listen to and learn more about Islam.
5. Arabic Language:
   1. The I.E.B. has been trying to encourage members of our Community to learn Arabic Language and obtain proficiency in it. The Board has offered advice and material to the Madressas, Organization and individual in this respect.
   2. In 1993 I.E.B. sponsored 11 students for eight weeks Summer Arabic Course in London where students from London, Malaysia, Bosnia, Sweden, and Canada participated.
   3. In co-operation with Dar es Salam Jamaat, I.E.B. sent an Arabic teacher to teach Arabic in the summer of 1993. 80 students took the course for 3 and half week in Arabic Language.
   4. In Mombasa a teacher was sent to teach Arabic for five weeks in the summer of 1994. More than 50 students participated and the whole course cost was borne by Mombasa Jamaat.
6. Quran Awareness:I.E.B. earmarked 1414 A.H. as “Quran Awareness Year” and issued a circular on 26th. July 1994 suggesting that some of the activities of Jamaat and Madressas could be as follows:
   1. Publication: The World Federation published a book called Subhanallah - The Wonders of Creation in the Holy Quran and distributed to all Members and Madressas. In co-operation of Bilal Muslim Mission of Scandinavia, a Swedish translation of the book Subhanallah was published.
   2. Hifz: The I.E.B. announced a prize of Pound Sterling 100 each to the student who successfully memorized the 30 siparas. The response was tremendous with students from Kenya, Tanzania, Canada, India, Yemen, Dubai, USA and U.K. taking part. Quite a few students completed 30 siparas Hifz and others 15 or more siparas.
   3. Quranic Arabic: The Quranic Arabic Foundation of Birmingham launched "Towards Understanding of Quranic Arabic" by Prof. Mohammed Ibrahim Surty- a book of lessons on Quranic Arabic with two Audio Cassettes. I.E.B. encouraged Madressas and students to this course. London (Hujjat) Jamaat organized special classes for ladies to learn Quranic Arabic.
   4. Qirat: Mombasa Jamaat invited a Qari from Iran, Shaikh Jawad Rafi’l, during Ramadhan of 1414 A.H. He recited Quran, Dua and Ziarat which were recorded by Mombasa Jamaat. Around 2000 copies were distributed by I.E.B. and Mombasa Jamaat throughout the world. Throughout the year 1414 A.H. London Jamaat organized special classes to improve Qirat.
   5. Understanding Quran: Every year London (Hujjat) Jamaat has a Quran Competition. This year emphasis was laid on understanding
   6. Libraries: More than 40 books on the Holy Quran in English has been collected by the I.E.B. Madressas have been encouraged to keep such books in their Libraries. Bilal Muslim Mission of Scandinavia is distributing the books SUBHANALLAH in Swedish to all Libraries (Public, Universities, and Schools) in Sweden.
   7. Writing, Drawing And Posters: Many Madressas held Exhibition of Drawing and Posters on the Holy Quran and held Competitions for their students to write on Quran and Quranic Subjects. Bilal Muslim Mission of Scandinavia held an Exhibition on the Holy Quran during the opening ceremony of Marsta Jamaal's new Centre in September 1993.
   8. Exhibition of Translation: I.E.B. proposes to an Exhibition of translation of the Holy Quran in different languages at an appropriate time. So far I.E.B has collected translation of Holy Quran in 27 different languages of the world.
7. Girls Islamic Camps: Girls Islamic Camps have been help in the United Kingdom under the auspices of Islamic Education Board (I.E.B.). There were three Camps held from 1992 to 1994. Sports and recreation was included in all the three Camps. Some of the topics covered were Women in Western Society, Maarifat of Allah s.w.t., Discussion on Islamic Education, Aqaed, Current affairs etc.
8. Ladies Workshop in USA: A ladies workshop was organized at Al Hussaini Madressa in New York on 13 & 14 August 1994 by Mrs. Ummul Banin Merali of London. A total of 99 ladies participated. Subjects such as Teaching recitation of Holy Quran through Phonetic method, An introduction to Teaching methods and class management, An introduction to Tadabbur of the Holy Quran, Raising of Children as Muslims, Practicalities and case study workshop of raising children, Youths and their problems in being able to be a Muslim in a Western Society and Introduction to self-study syllabus to study Islam at home. Similar workshop for a day was also conducted at Allentown and Albany by Mr. Merali.
9. Inter Quiz Competition in Dar Es Salaam: Seven teams from Dar es Salaam, Tanga, Mombasa, Tanzania, Arusha and United Kingdom participated in the 2nd. Inter-Quiz Competition organized by Dar Es Salaam Jamaat on 4th. April 1994. The Competition consisted to Quiz, Drama, speech and Olympic Sciences. Apart from Islamic questions in the Quiz section, the participants spoke on: Islam, an answer to all our problems; the problem of Drugs in the West and how Islam helps to overcome it; Islam a Fundamentalist religion. Part of the cost of the group visiting from U.K. was borne by World Federation.
10. Executive Councillor Jaffer Dharamsi's Visit to West Coast of USA: There is small community of K.S.I in California. However there is large number of Shias from other parts of the World. On behalf of I.E.B., Jaffer Dharamsi held meeting with Madressa Teachers and members of the Shia Community in different parts of California. He has submitted his recommendation to the World Federation. Some Madressas has requested Islamic Books for their Libraries. They have requested for experienced Teachers to visit and conduct Seminars in the area.
11. Europe - The Forgotten People: The Islamic Education Board made a point to reach them and provided them as much assistance as possible in religious matters. Representative of the I.E.B. visited all places where there were large or small community of ours and provided them Islamic Literature, Organized Islamic Workshops, sent Zakirs in the month of Mahe Ramzan and Moharram to recite Majalis in the language they could better understand and appreciate, and so on. Some of the Countries/places where I.E.B. worked are France, Belgium, Portugal, Sweden, Bosnia, Albania, Malaysia, Russia, Bangladesh and West Bengal, Thailand, Guyana (South America), Trinidad and South Africa .

Medical Advisory Board (MAB)

Report for Term 1991-1994:

Introduction

The Medical Advisory Board is an appointed body by the President and works in the same capacity as other Boards of the World Federation.

It consists of:

1. Dr. Mohammed Taqi I Walji – Chairman
2. Dr. Ahmed A Hassam - In charge of Projects
3. Mr. Akil A Rehemtulla - Patients Welfare and Liaison Officer
4. Mr. Munirali H Haji - Medical Screening
5. Dr. Akberali Mithani - Overseas Representation and Health Education
6. Mr. Azad Rajbhai - Patients Welfare
7. Mr. Hasnain Kanani - Procurement

Functions of Medical Advisory Board:

1. To organize treatment of Patients from all over the world
2. To advice Doctors and Para-Medics on post graduate education in U.K.
3. To promote Health Education and provide relevant information to Jamaats and Doctors of our community Worldwide.
4. To organize Haj Medical Mission
5. To liaise with sister Organization from other countries, mainly third world and sending them Medicine, Equipment, Journal, Books, and support and advise.
6. To organize Medical screening programmes

All Jamaats and Organization are encouraged to form their own Medical Sub-committees.

It cost Pound Sterling 12500 to run the Secretariat of the Medical Advisory Board. The increasing administrative services necessitated the establishment of a sub secretariat at Birmingham in 1984. Since then the World Federation has spent Pound Sterling 93000 for the running of Birmingham Secretariat.

Of the over 3000 patients served by MAB, less than 2% have contributed towards administrative cost despite of reminders, Circulars and personal approaches.

Consequently the Secretariat deficit was rising. It was thus decided to levy a charge of Pound Sterling 50 per person from 1st. January 1993. This is just an administration charges for Office support. All Medical and welfare services by the Doctors and Volunteers will continue to be offered free of cost.

Between 1980 and 1993 MAB has treated 2790 patients from around the world with varied Medical problems.

Hajj Medical Mission

The first Hajj Mission went in 1977 and the last in 1992 – a total of 16 Missions. Its job consisted of visiting and treating patients of our Community from different countries.

Every year Medical cover was provided both in Makkah and Medina. The Mission had its own separate base to make it easy for the Hujjaj to consult the Doctors. A good supply of Medicines was carried by the Doctors from U.K. Also large supply was bought from Saudi Arabia.

The main base in Makkah was fully equipped with Medicines, ECG Machine, Oxygen, Nebulizer Equipment etc.

Over the last sixteen year, the need of Hujjaj is changed. Before, Hujjaj used to come to Haj in very small groups or as individuals. They would have to struggle hard to find accommodation and in case illness stand in long queues in the hospitals for hours. They often use to die of simple preventable/treatable diseases like Asthma, Heat stroke etc.

Now of Hujjaj come in big and more organized groups. People are better prepared. Thanks to Hajj Medical Mission for its leaflets, books, videos, seminars and the past sixteen years of preventive and curative practice of Medical Care in Haj. People are well informed and able take better care, hence reducing the incidence of minor as well as fatal diseases. Some groups are so well organized that they bring their own Doctors to provide their groups with 24 hours Medical cover.

In consultation with the Office Bearers of the World Federation, MAB therefore decided to change the function of Haj Medical Mission to an advisory capacity. From 1993 the Mission did not send its own team of Doctors, Administrators, and volunteers or provide medicine. Instead it advised the Groups and individuals on health aspects of Haj through leaflets, Seminar, books, Videos etc. The group leaders have to make arrangements to provide Doctors and Medicine for their groups. Over the last sixteen years the Mission has acquired a team of several Doctors with vast experience of “Haj Medicine”. If group leaders want to avail the services of these Doctors they are welcome to contact MAB.

There was suggestion that the MAB should reconsider their decision of closer of Haj Medical Mission. A meeting was called on 21st. August 1994 and invitation was sent to all parties concerned worldwide. But only two on them attended the meeting. Due to lack of feedback from the Community, Medical Advisory Board is not in a position to forward any recommendation on the future of Hajj Medical Mission.

The following are available from the Medical Advisory Board at Birmingham:

1. Encounter - Once in a life time – Haj. It’s an half an hour documentary Video film jointly made by Central Television U.K. and Medical Advisory Board. It depicts the work of Haj Medical Mission and also tries to explain simply some of the Ehkaams of Haj and philosophy of Haj.
2. Protect your health during Haj and Ziarat. This is the leaflets produced by Medical Advisory Board for the Hujjaj and Zawaars. It gives guideline, preventative advice and Vaccination requirements.

Medical Screening Programme

The Medical Advisory Board of the World Federation has been conducting Medical Screening Programmes in most of the Jamaats in the U.K. over the last three years.

Each person having completed the screening programme is given a summary of their results and advised on further checkups with their Doctors, Dentist or Optician.

The results from these Jamaats have been collected and it has highlighted some interesting points:

1. The major of concern for our Jamaats is Obesity which affects 10-50% of the whole community screened.
2. 10-30 males screened actively participated in smoking.
3. Ladies need to be made more aware of the importance of having regular smear tests and breast examination.
4. The Dental health of our Community is satisfactory but regular checkups are required for routine dental treatment.
5. In most of the Jamaats, upto half of the people screened need further Eye test or adjustments to their present spectacles.

The screening programme was very successful and was well attended even in small communities.

Primary Health Care Projects

India

Alsafeena Welfare Trust, Govandi:

Govandi is one of the largest slums of Bombay with Shia population of around 25000. In the area of Baiganwadi where WF works, there are 200 houses with around 1200 people. Majority are Sayyed.

In early 1989 a survey was conducted and found that:

1. Infant’s deaths are very high
2. Birth rates were very high
3. Vaccination uptake was very poor
4. Preventable disease like Polio, Measles, tetanus were very common and killing children
5. Education background was very poor

Diseases can only be prevented by proper medical treatment and health education.

The project at Govandi is a revolutionary concept in preventive health promotion where diseases are alleviated by educating the community on how to avoid or prevent health miseries thereby making them self-reliant.

Health Care Centre and Nursery Schools are established where people are not exploited but rather treated in best possible manner wherein emphasis is on prevention as well as cure.

The Objectives are to identify the factors which affect the health of this Community. These are ignorance, poverty, exploitation, poor environment, little or no sanitation etc.

By June 1994, 52987 patients were treated in this clinic and 886 families were registered. The number of children immunized was 1974. 337 anti natal cases were seen and 367 children under five had been weighed.

The work of the team consists of Diagnose and Treatment, Cheap Medicine, Health Education, Referral to Specialist if needed, immunization, Diet Supplement, Handicap children rehabilitation, Anti natal care to Pregnant women, Training Programme and Family Planning Services.

The incidence of common diseases such Cough & Cold, Diarrhea, Skin Infection and Worm Infestations are decreasing due to acceptance of health education programme.

Al Safeena Education Centre:

Education is the key to the salvation of the Inhabitants of Govandi. It will bring self-awareness and responsibility.

The Centre gives basic Nursery Education to around 150 children. This has given them boost to get into state education system.

The Nursery School is also where children are “Picked Up” for immunization programme or Medical checkups.

The total cost of Govandi Project is around 900 Pound Sterling per month.

Other health care Centre which works on the same guideline as for Al Safeena Welfare Trust are:

1. Zainabiya Health Care Centre, Patna, Bihar, India
2. Imam e Zamana Mission, Hyderabad, India (Has 3 clinics in areas mainly dominated by Shias)

Africa

Medical Advisory Board has been in close communication and gives support, guidance, Medical supplies and Journals whenever required to the following:

1. Ithna Asheri Charitable Dispensary- Arusha
2. Jaffery Charitable Dispensary- Tanga
3. Jaffery Charitable Medical Services Dispensary- Moshi
4. Pwani Medical Clinic- Mombasa

Nasimco

Its aims are:

1. Liaise and coordinate with Jamaats and health Professional in North America
2. Provide Medical advice
3. Provide Screening/information for Medical ailments
4. Provide Medical assistance to Hujjaj and Zawaars
5. Raise funds for needy Communities
6. Obtain Medical supplies and literature for needy communities
7. Facilitate visits by health Professional to needy Communities

Work done so far:

1. Financial support to various Projects in India and Africa
2. Medical supplies and literature to East Africa
3. Regular Medical Lectures and Seminars for our Community
4. Fund raising activities

Sweden

Trollhattan Jamaat has had a Medical Advisory Board under the able Chairmanship of Dr. Gulamabbas R. Rajpar since 1981. The local MAB offers: Medical facility to visitors in Sweden Accommodation to patients for Convalescence for a maximum period of two months Dr. Rajpar will voluntarily give his Medical Services to all the members of Khoja Shia Ithna Asheri Jamaats, if needed

The Jamaat has always responded to appeal for funds for Medical cases from East Africa. Dr. Rajpar always availed himself to MAB for Hajj Medical Mission, Medical Projects in India and Pakistan and fact finding mission to Iran.

Aden

The Board has been active in giving Medical assistance to local community. From time to time patients have been referred from Aden to U.K. for treatment.

Iran

Zanzibar Iranian Welfare Trust has from time to time send patients to U.K. for treatment. Patients from other Organizations and individual also visit U.K. for treatment.

MAB has a close collaboration with a group of Iranian Doctors working in Tehran. Their aim is to provide Medical Services with education to the needy of South Tehran. Large supply of Medical Books and Journal are send to them.

Iraqi Refugees to Iran

In 1991, after the Gulf War, a million Shias mostly from Najaf, Karbala and Basra are sheltered in refugee camps scattered all along Iran-Iraq border.

In July 1991, Dr. Gulamabbas Rajpar of Sweden and Dr. Mohammad Taqi Walji from U.K. World Federation visited these camps to witness the horror of this most brutal and unjust war first hand.

The World Federation was able to send huge consignment of Special Medicine and Medical Equipment to treat the War victims costing around 94887 Pound Sterling.

Again in Oct 1993 WF sent a consignment of Medicine worth P.Stg. 6000. In 1994 another consignment worth P.Stg. 13765 was send.

Health Education

Bearing in mind the changing disease patterns and needs of our Community, the Medical Advisory Board has for distribution the following from its Secretariat:

Guide Books on HIV and AIDS Guide book on Meningitis and Septicemia Leaflets of IVF

It has organized Seminar on AID, HIV and Cousin Marriages in 1994 at Stanmore Imambara.

It’s been 15 years that the Medical Advisory Board was formed and has done lot of Community work and ready to do more in future. MAB needs new leadership and new blood.

It is hoped that other Doctors, Pharmacists, Dentists, Opticians and other workers would join it to make it diverse in its activities.

Zainabiya Child Sponsorship Scheme

Report - Presented at Triennial Conference October 1994

At the start of the term some 2308 students were being educated. By the end of three years there are 8356 students.

During this period, the Sponsorship Scheme is being consolidated. Expanded, improved in the existing localities in India. ZCSS has also started sponsoring students in Thailand and Bangladesh.1682 students are being sponsored on one to one basis.

The Council of Gujarat took responsibility of students in 1990. ZCSS was back in course and the administration on gear to sponsor more and more children. The receipts in the fund shot up from Pound Sterling 44606 in 1989 to 123437 in 1990 and it kept increasing till 1993 when the revenue was Pound Sterling 146417.

Zainabiya Schools

Avalkonda, Hyderabad

A primary school has been built at a cost Pound Sterling 20,000 in 1994. 300 children are educated at the cost Pound Sterling 1200 per month.

Avalkonda has been declared a model village by the government of India due to extensive involvement of the World Federation in this village in the field of Education, Housing and Cottage industries etc. The Population of 250 families is almost 100% Shias. The new school is important focal point and dominates the village.

Alipur, South India

In 1994 ZCSS build Zainabiya Primary and High School at a cost of Pound Sterling 20,000. The School has already started with the first intake of 189 children at a cost of Pound Sterling 900 per month.

Alipur is a large village of mainly Shias, 90% Sadats. The School will play an important part in the upliftment programme of the village.

Tawheed Hostel in Bhuj

It’s a hostel for 60 students built to a very high specification, fully financed by Haji Mohamed Jaffer Hasham of Toronto. Unfortunately due to misunderstanding amongst the Momineen of Kutch, this Hostel, officially opened in December 1993, remains closed.

Patna, India

In Patna ZCSS opened a coaching Centre in April 1994. Nearly 200 students of all ages are being coached every day from 4 pm to 7 pm.

Baiganwadi, Govandi, Bombay

In Baiganwadi, Govandi Nursery schools for 126 children and classes for 16 adolescents is all part of the Primary Health Care Project of the Medical Advisory Board of the World Federation. The cost of the complete education programme is Pound Sterling 250 per month.

Over the period of three years, the staff has managed to secure admission into good local schools for almost all of the 270 children.

On admission to school, KSI Medical Aid and Welfare Society of Bombay, under the Chairmanship of Haji Shaukatali Sultanali Mewawala, helps to pay for their fees and look after their educational needs, partly financed by ZCSS.

Madrasa Islamia Khujwa in Bihar

ZCSS sponsors 500 students all over Bihar through this organization under the very active Secretary Prof. Dr. Sami Askari.

In 1990 ZCSS improved the condition of the hostel by providing lockers, beds and bedding to the students who until then used to sleep on the floor.

In 1993, the construction of phase 2 of the classrooms was financed and thus AL Khui Block was completed. Plans are now being drawn up for a new student’s hostel, assembly hall and other facilities.

The Complex is used every year for an eye camp. A total of 165 cataract operations were performed here during the last 2 eye camps.

Najafi Education Centre in Bhavnagar

Its being financed by ZCSS. There are several Momineens in Bhavnagar who are dedicated to the education cause of our community. Besides looking after the 507 students being sponsored under ZCSS, they

1. Distribute free text books
2. Publish and sell exercise books at 40% of shop prices
3. Run vocational classes
4. Run computer classes
5. Run tuition classes
6. Run Madressa and religious classes

Mehfile e Murtaza

Mehfile E Murtaza has been running an independent sponsorship scheme in Karachi since 1985. It is running well and the volunteers of Mehfil e Murtaza are doing an excellent job in the field of education.

Religious Education

In almost every village where children are sponsored, ZCSS have a Madressa. It is compulsory for the sponsored children to attend Madressa. Cost of the teachers is met by ZCSS.

Mehfile E Murtaza

Mehfile E Murtaza has been running an independent sponsorship scheme in Karachi since 1985. It is running well and the volunteers of Mehfil e Murtaza are doing an excellent job in the field of education.

Nasimco

Nasimco is now running its own independent sponsorship scheme because of the requirement of tax deductible receipts. Its running well and ZCSS have had meetings with Nasimco to make sure there is no duplication of sponsorships to the students.

Project of WF for 1991-1994

Govandi, Baiganwadi (India)

Following report presented at the Executive Council meeting on 23rd. May 1992

As Dr. Abbas Dost Mohamed Moledina and his wife Fatmabai have immigrated to Canada, restructuring of the Trust and working of the Project had to be undertaken. Prof. Mohamed Husein Merchant has been appointed as Chairman and Managing Trustee. Dr. Amirali M Rehmtulla has been appointed as Trustee. Mr. Asghar Y Salemohamed has been appointed as Executive Advisor.

Dr. Moledina continues to be a “Continuing Trustee and Settler”.

1. Antenatal Care: A lady MBBS Doctor, Dr. Talreja, attends the ANC clinic once a week. Over 90 ladies are benefiting from this programme.
2. Uuder Five Care: Programme of weighing of children has been revitalized in such a way that each member of the staff has adopted 5 families to look after, visiting them at regular interval. Deworming and Vitamin A supplement to be given regularly under the supervision of new trustee Dr. Rahmtulla.
3. Rehabilitation of Polio Victims: 30 Polio afflicted children and adults have been listed, out of which 5 children have been given calipers and boots, 2 have been operated upon and 3 adults have been rehabilitated with a telephone booth. Rest of them would also be treated and rehabilitated.
4. Education Centre: Three nursery classes are running in the morning with 75 children studying and 50 children attending non formal education classes in the afternoon. 48 of them have already been admitted to nearby Municipal and private schools for the next academic year starting in June. 27 adolescent girls attend classes every day in which they are taught sewing, embroidery, cookery, besides English, Urdu, Hindi and Arithmetic. These girls are now ready to hold an exhibition of the articles prepared by them during these classes. Our Doctor visits the Education Centre once every week to check these children and give appropriate treatment if necessary.

The expenses for the entire project is Rs. 25000 per month.

Eradication of Poverty in Gujarat

At the Executive Council Meeting held on 26th. September 1992, the following report was presented.

Under the supervision and care of the Council of Gujarat the following housing projects have been initiated:

1. Palitana: 18 flats built at the cost of 10 lakhs. The World Federation, from its funds and funds from donors, has paid for this project in full. Flats would be ready for allocation by October 1992.
2. Talaja: 36 flats are under construction at the cost of Rs. 20 lakhs. The World Federation has paid Rs. 950,000 for this project.
3. Ahmedabad: 12 flats being constructed at the cost of Rs. 12 Lakhs. Momineen here have raised Rs. 5.5 lakhs from their own resources, and the world Federation has, from its funds and from the donors, given Rs. 3 lakhs to this project.
4. Mahuva: A major project of 72 flats is underway with a total cost of Rs. 40 Lakhs. The Council of Gujarat has received Rs. 1.1 lakhs and a pledge for Rs. 5 lakhs.
5. Bhavnagar: 40 flats at the cost of 24 lakh rupees is awaiting commencement. There are no pledges and the total sum remains to be raised. There is an urgent need to relocate 12 families from small location to big center like Mahuva or Bhavnagar and this will cost nearly Rs. 500,000.

For completing these Housing Projects, the deficit is Rs. 74 lakhs, of which 35 lakhs has been pledged at the Conference. These pledges have not been fulfilled in spite of repeated reminders.

The Career, Education and Training Board

Report - For the Term 1991-1994

The following report was provided by Ahmed Hassam, Chairman, Career, Education And Training Advisory Board:

Recognizing the need for providing guidance and advice on careers, training and secular educational matters, the 1991 conference approved the establishments of the Careers Education and Training Board. In its first term the Board has concentrated on fact finding and gathering information on the needs of our communities.

1. Education Status of our Youths - A study was carried out to assess the educational status of youths between the ages of 15 to22 years and to evaluate their needs. From the data collected, it was clear that the youths in our community required assistance in the area of Professional career guidance and financial assistance. In Europe the need was more for advise, information and career counseling. However is Africa, in addition to the above, the youths also required financial assistance to enable them to pursue higher education.
2. Visit to Schools in Tanzania and Kenya - In 1994 Ahmad Hassam and Hasnain Walji visited Dar-es-salam, Moshi, Arusha, Nairobi and Mombasa to access our educational facilities both in Tanzania and Kenya. While the infrastructure is in place, it was felt that much more could be done to further enhance our educational facilities. Four main recommendations were made:
   1. More involvement of educational professionals in the area of curriculum development, schools administration and career counseling.
   2. Motivation and assistance to the girls in our community to pursue further education
   3. Assistance, mainly financial, to youths in our community to go for further education
   4. Promotion of career counseling at Jamaats and schools
3. Muslims Schools – UK - Following some changes by the Department of Education in the provision and funding of schools in the UK, after extensive discussion it was resolved that the Career, Education and Training Advisory Board conduct a feasibility study on this and present a paper as soon as possible. A questionnaire was sent to out to all the UK Jamaats to provide key information to enable the Board to prepare its paper.
4. Female Education Scholarship - Two Scholarships were initiated for the study of degree course in Radiography. Two girls, one from Kenya and other from Tanzania have been awarded these scholarships to study at the Charterhouse College of Radiography, University of London.
5. During the term various correspondences have been received from students for assistance and advice and these have been dealt with as appropriate. Following the meeting with the Education Board of the Africa Federation, a much closer rapport has been established with Ahmed Daya and his team