In the name of Allah, the All-beneficent, the All-merciful

In the name of Allah, the All-beneficent, the All-merciful

Praise and thank your Lord, my beloved daughter!
On the occasion of my daughter Sumaiya, may Allah protect her, receiving her Master’s degree from the University of Oxford
Friday, 18th May 2025

By Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi
Oxford
Translated by Aisha Akram

My beloved daughter! I congratulate you from the bottom of my heart on graduating from the prestigious University of Oxford, where only the brightest minds are admitted, and from which only the determined and resolute graduate. Your mother, relatives and loved ones all join me in congratulating you.

The flower of my life! This day is like no other. It is the result of years of hard work, sleepless nights, unwavering determination, and fearless ambition. You persevered, turning nights into days, while sleep kept calling you. You have brightened your future with knowledge and hard work, filled your achievements with excellence, and lifted your name, and ours, high among the stars.

The light of my heart! You have always been and continue to be a shining light in our home, a source of happiness in our hearts, and a beacon of hope in our lives. This accomplishment is not only your success. Rather, it is an honour we all share, and it is proof that when dreams are followed by faith and effort, they become a reality that lights up the world and leaves a lasting impact.

Our pride and our honour! You have overcome a challenging journey, whilst experiencing the hardship of being far from home, and tasting the bitterness of unfamiliar food. Yet, you have shown your sisters that you are worthy of leadership and excellence. And here you are today, graduating from one of the world’s most prestigious universities, preparing to write a new chapter in the story of your successful journey.

Congratulations to you, O shining star, O flower of the days, and O symbol of hope and excellence! Today we celebrate you, and we raise our hands in supplication to thank Allah, who has blessed us with you, and has blessed us with this great achievement.

Coolness of my eyes! Walk confidently towards your bright future, and let your knowledge and strong character be your armour against life’s challenges. You deserve every goodness, honour, and high position.

Know that all blessings and achievements, whether small or great, are from Allah, the Bestower. So prostrate to Him in gratitude, seek more of His bounty, and fear Him in private and in public. Your piety is your provision and believe that it is the best thing you can carry with you. Purify your heart just as you purify your clothes, and increase yourself in righteousness and nobility.

Be careful not to let Satan mislead you through arrogance or desire, and be certain that your Lord’s mercy is greater than what the pleasure-seekers compete for. And know that the Hereafter is better for you, and for all of us, than this life. May Allah make you and us among His righteous servants and among those who serve His upright religion, and may He reward us with His pleasure and nearness in the home of the righteous.