Elders of the Shia Ithna Asheri Muslim Communities around the globe have made significant contributions throughout their lives to the betterment of their communities. During the course of the Conference, The World Federation is recognizing some of these individuals with a ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ in appreciation of their selfless efforts. The first senior to be presented with this award is Raziabai Jan Muhammad of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Raziabai Jan Muhammad was born in Lamu, Kenya. After completing her A levels in secular studies, she pursued a course in teacher training. Little did she know that this course would be of immense help in her later Madrasa teaching endeavors.

 

 

Upon successfully finishing the teacher training program, Raziabai was offered two wonderful opportunities in education; these included director of a school and Madrasah teacher. After consulting with Maulana Sayyid Saeed Akhtar Rizvi, she decided to spend her life in the Madrasah where she taught for 37 years.

In 1976, she was inspired by Muhammadbhai Dhirani to begin her teaching career in the Madrasah up until 2012. Here, she taught Quran, fiqh, history and Arabic. Her passion for the Madrasah continues till today where she now participates in a Quranic reflection class in Dar es Salaam.

When she first started teaching in the Madrasa, there were only 92 girls; over the years this number has grown exponentially. These pioneer students are now the grandparents of many of her present day students.

 

Other Achievements

Raziabai was the first Chairlady of the Ladies Management Committee of Dar es Salaam Jamaat for six years. For this and other countless services to the community, she was honored with the "Fatima Medal" on 13 April 2013. She was also presented with the Mulla Asghar Memorial Award by The World Federation.

In an interview with Shaykh Kumail Rajani, Raziabai said: "I am highly indebted to my husband" . Both Raziabai and her husband are now running a book store in Dar es Salaam.

The World Federation ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’

In recognition of her many years of service to the Madrasah in Dar es Salaam, The World Federation President, Dr. Asgar Moledina presented Raziabai with a “Lifetime Achievement Award”. The award, which comprised a ‘Bandni’ was presented to her by The World Federation Councilor, Sr. Saeeda Jiwa, accompanied by Dr. Asgar Moledina. The World Federation takes this opportunity to congratulate Raziabai Jan Muhammad for her excellent commitment and accomplishments. May Allah (swt) accept her efforts both in this world and in the Hereafter.

 

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