Jamia Hamdard Celebrates the 118th Birth Anniversary of its Founder Chancellor, Late Hakeem Abdul Hameed
Jamia Hamdard commemorated the 118th birth anniversary of its illustrious founder, Late Hakeem Abdul Hameed Saheb, with great reverence and enthusiasm at the Hamdard Convention Centre, New Delhi on Monday. The celebration was organised to honour the enduring legacy of Late Hakeem Abdul Hameed Saheb, whose contributions to education, healthcare, scientific advancement and institution-building continue to inspire generations.
The event was held under the patronage of the Hon’ble Chancellor of Jamia Hamdard, Janab Hammad Ahmed Saheb. Renowned scientist Dr. Sanjay Kumar, Chairman, Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB), Department of Agricultural Research & Education, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
The programme commenced with the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran, followed by the rendition of the Jamia Hamdard Tarana. Prof. Reshma Nasreen, Dean, Student Welfare, delivered the welcome address and reflected on the significance of the occasion, reaffirming the university’s commitment to the ideals and vision of its founder.
The highlight of the programme was the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Memorial Lecture 2026, delivered by Dr. Sanjay Kumar on the theme, “Bioresources for a Thriving Bioeconomy: Linking Nature, Science and Livelihoods.” Addressing the gathering, Dr. Kumar emphasised that Hakeem Abdul Hameed’s vision extended beyond individual achievement and was deeply rooted in the welfare of humanity and the nation. He said that Hakeem Saheb’s commitment to education, scientific advancement, women’s empowerment and institution-building continues to serve as an inspiration for generations.
Speaking about the growing significance of a bioresource-based bioeconomy, Dr. Kumar highlighted the need to align scientific progress with healthier communities, sustainable livelihoods and opportunities for future generations. He noted that India’s bioeconomy currently contributes approximately 4.8 per cent to the national GDP, with its estimated value reaching US$195 billion in 2025 and projected to grow to around US$300 billion by 2030.
In his presidential address, Prof. (Dr.) M. Z. Abdin, Vice Chancellor, Jamia Hamdard, said that Founder’s Day was not merely an occasion to remember a remarkable individual but also an opportunity to reflect upon the values and vision that gave birth to Jamia Hamdard. Describing Hakeem Abdul Hameed as much more than an eminent physician, Prof. Abdin said that he was an educationist, philanthropist, scholar and visionary institution-builder who believed that knowledge acquires its highest purpose when placed in the service of humanity.
He further stated that the birth anniversary provided an opportunity to renew the university’s commitment to these ideals and strive towards making Jamia Hamdard an institution where excellence in education and research goes hand in hand with social responsibility, innovation addresses meaningful challenges, and the benefits of knowledge extend beyond the university to society at large.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Prof. (Dr.) M. Shahar Yar, Director, IQAC, Jamia Hamdard, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, guests, diplomats from different embassies, media persons, faculty members, staff and students for their presence and valuable contributions to the success of the event. The celebration concluded with the rendition of the National Anthem, marking the end of a memorable and inspiring tribute to the life and legacy of Hakeem Abdul Hameed Saheb.
The event was attended by several distinguished dignitaries, including Prof. (Dr.) M. Afshar Alam, Former Vice-Chancellor, Jamia Hamdard; H.E. Dr. Mostafa Goharifar, Deputy Ambassador, Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran; Dr. Ali Asgar Tabrez, Research Counsellor, Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran; Mr. Muntasir Mehdi, Secretary, Science & Education and Student’s Affairs, Embassy of Islamic Republic of Iran; H.E. Mr. Oday Hatim Mohammad, Charge d’ Affairs, Embassy of the Republic of Iraq; Asst. Prof. Dr. Firas Sabah Salih Al-Turaihi, Cultural Attache, Embassy of the Republic of Iraq; Dr. Ayat Saad Ahmed, Head of Egyptian Cultural and Educational Bureau, Embassy of Egypt Mr. S.S. Akhtar, Controller of Examinations; Deans, Heads of Departments, senior officials, faculty members and students of Jamia Hamdard.
