Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Raheem,

Distinguished guests, faculty, staff, families, and most importantly, the graduating Class of 2024,

Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.

It is with immense joy and gratitude that I stand before you today, celebrating this momentous occasion as we honor the achievements of our graduates. Today marks not just the end of an academic journey, but the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunity, responsibility, and the promise of impactful contributions to society.

As graduates, you are stepping into the world as beacons of light. Your work holds the potential to uplift small, rural communities and to leave a meaningful impact on larger, urbanized regions. It is now your responsibility to embody and carry forward the teachings of mercy, compassion, and service that Islam emphasizes.

In The Gambia, as in many parts of Africa and all over the world, the need for educated and compassionate individuals to address local challenges is immense. You, as graduates of this institution, have been prepared to answer this call. Whether through healthcare, education, community development, or technology, your efforts will contribute to positive change, guided by the noble intention to please Allah (SWT). Let this intention serve as your compass in every endeavor, and commit to serving humanity with sincerity and dedication.

Small communities, often overlooked, possess immense potential waiting to be nurtured. Likewise, large cities, bustling with opportunities and challenges, need dedicated individuals like you to drive meaningful change. Whether your journey takes you to a remote village or a metropolitan center, know that every action, no matter how small, contributes to the greater good. Challenges may arise—be it with technology, limited resources, or societal pressures—but with the education and training you have received at IOU, along with your faith and determination, you have the tools to overcome them.

As you step into this new chapter of your life, remember that you are part of a global network of graduates who strive to serve humanity, uplift the Muslim Ummah, and seek Allah’s (SWT) pleasure in all that they do. Your journey is not merely your own; it is part of a collective legacy of knowledge, service, and compassion.

Carry the torch of knowledge and service, lighting the path for others. Whether you are alleviating poverty, providing healthcare, educating the next generation, or addressing pressing global challenges like climate change and social justice, know that your work is not just for today, but for eternity. Sincerity and a heart focused on Allah’s pleasure will make your efforts truly impactful and everlasting.

To the Class of 2024: take pride in the legacy you are about to create. The world needs your talents, your compassion, and your drive to make a difference. We have no doubt that each of you will make significant contributions to your local communities and to the world at large.

Do not forget the International Open University, that have provided quality affordable education for practically free. The IOU needs you to give back, in kind or cash, to sustain it and contribute to to its dream of education the Ummah. Small drops make an ocean so contribute in your little ways and encourage others to do the same to sustain the IOU and build it to an enviable Alma Mata. You owe it to Dr Bilal Philips, you owe it to IOU, and you owe it to the many people out there counting on us to give them a meaningful life.

As I bid farewell in my role as Vice Chancellor, my heart is filled with deep gratitude for the privilege of serving this extraordinary institution. It has been an honour to lead and witness the remarkable growth and achievements of IOU. I assure the entire IOU community that the legacy of excellence we have built together will continue. I am confident that my successor will bring fresh perspectives and uphold the values that define this institution.

Though I step down from this role, my commitment to IOU remains unwavering. I will continue to serve as a member of this great community, offering my support and expertise wherever it may be needed. Together, we will uphold the vision of our Chancellor—to change the nation through education, to serve the needy, and to provide knowledge to those in deprived areas who are yearning for opportunity.

To the faculty and staff, thank you for your dedication and tireless efforts. To the students, thank you for your resilience, your passion, and your unwavering trust in the mission of IOU. It is your success that makes our work truly rewarding.

May IOU continue to thrive, standing as a pillar of hope and knowledge for the world. May Allah (SWT) bless this institution, its graduates, and all who work to make its vision a reality.

To the Class of 2024—congratulations once again. May Allah guide, protect, and bless you with success in all your endeavours. Ameen.

Wa akhiru da’wana anil-hamdu lillahi Rabbil ‘Alamin.

Jazakumullahu Khairan.

BaarakAllahu feekum

Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.