AMU Alumni Association of Greater Chicago (AMUAA-GC)
Sir Syed Day 2026
October 3, 2026 | Sullivan Center, Vernon Hills | Prepared by Ajmal Sufiyan, Convener
The AMU Alumni Association of Greater Chicago (AMUAA-GC) celebrated Sir Syed Day 2026 on October 3, 2026, at the Sullivan Center, Vernon Hills, marking the 209th birth anniversary of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, founder of Aligarh Muslim University. Aligs, their families and friends came together for an evening of remembrance, reflection and fellowship.
Opening and Welcome
The program opened with remarks by the Convener, Mr. Ajmal Sufiyan, who welcomed the guests and recalled Sir Syed's lifelong mission of education and reform. In a special touch, every table was named after one of AMU's residential halls, so that all the halls of AMU were recognized. Alumni were invited to sit at, or near, the table of their own hall, which led to many happy reunions of old hall-mates.
Recitation of the Holy Quran
The formal proceedings began with a recitation of the Holy Quran by Hafiz Ali, which set a serene and blessed tone for the evening.
President's Report
The President of AMUAA-GC, Dr. Zafeer, presented the Association's report. He highlighted AMUAA-GC's activities and initiatives over the past year and its plans for the year ahead.
Keynote Address: Sir Syed and AI
Mr. Jawed Aslam Saheb introduced and welcomed the keynote speaker, Dr. Shahid Siddiqui. Dr. Siddiqui then spoke on "Sir Syed's Vision About AI." He explained how Sir Syed's habit of verifying knowledge through evidence offers a timely guide for using artificial intelligence wisely. He stressed that, as Sir Syed taught, scientific progress must always go hand in hand with ethics and human dignity. The audience received the talk with great interest and appreciation.
Award for Community Service
AMUAA-GC presented an award to Mr. Syed Ali Sufiyan in recognition of his outstanding community service and his continued support of AMUAA-GC's educational projects. The audience gave the honoree a warm round of applause.
Dinner and AMU Film
Guests enjoyed dinner together, followed by an AMU film that brought back fond memories of campus life in Aligarh.
Kahoot Quiz: Hall versus Hall
Mr. Ajmal and Mr. Faisal conducted an interactive Kahoot quiz on Sir Syed, his writings and AMU history. Each hall table played as a team under its hall's name, which brought out a spirited friendly rivalry.
- Winner: Begum Sultan Jahan Hall
- Runner-up: Abdullah Hall
AMU Tarana
The most cherished moment of the evening came when the Tarana Team led the AMU Tarana, "Ye Mera Chaman." The whole audience stood and sang along with deep emotion and pride.
Vote of Thanks
The evening concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Shakil Khan, Chairman of the Board of Directors. He thanked the keynote speaker, guests, members and families for their participation.
Acknowledgement
The success of the event was made possible by the dedicated efforts of AMUAA-GC volunteers. They handled registration, food service, chai, decorations, hall name tags, photography and the cleanup at the end of the evening. The Association is deeply grateful for their commitment and hard work.
