Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s (HBKU) College of Islamic Studies (CIS) welcomed the former President of Religious Affairs of Turkey for a lecture on the future of Islamic studies.

In Rooted Revival: How We Will Educate Future Scholars, renowned Islamic scholar Dr. Mehmet Gormez drew from his vast knowledge and experience to discuss the significance of a rooted revival in Islamic studies. This was complemented by his insights on the future of Islamic education, as well as necessary steps to effectively educate future generations of scholars. Dr. Gormez was accompanied by Dr. Mutaz Al-Khatib, Associate Professor of Methodology and Ethics, CIS, who offered his perspectives on how to further enrich discourse surrounding Islamic studies and methodologies.

Speaking after the lecture, Dr Recep Şentürk, Dean of CIS, said: “It was a privilege to host Dr. Mehmet Gormez for this lecture and additional discussions. His knowledge and experience in the field of Islamic studies speaks for itself, particularly concerning the future shape of Islamic education. Dr. Mehmet’s presence also reflects the CIS’ commitment to facilitating critical intellectual debates on Islam through its academic programs, research activities, and high-level dialogue. We look forward to hosting similar discussions in the future.”

Rooted Revival: How We Will Educate Future Scholars was followed by an introduction to the CIS’ newest programs. Commencing Fall 2023, the college welcomes its first cohorts to its Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Islamic Studies, Graduate Certificate in Islamic Studies (GCIS) and Graduate Certificate in Islamic Finance (GCIF). For further information on all CIS programs, please visit https://www.hbku.edu.qa/en/cis#sec1

The College of Islamic Studies (CIS) provides a unique platform that contributes to critical intellectual debates on Islam in a global context, through its blended academic programs and an immersive learning experience; as well as its distinguished research division, which includes several research centers and clusters.