Aligarh: "Sir Syed's intent on modern education went a long way in shaping the destiny of modern secular India and his relentless efforts for spreading the knowledge of English and science and technology has made AMU an oasis of high learning in Uttar Pradesh where education ha not taken firm roots", said Mr. T.V. Rajeshwar, Governor of Uttar Pradesh.

Addressing the Sir Syed Day celebrations at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) on Friday, Rajeshwar said that Sir Syed's book "The Causes of Indian Revolt" has established his credentials as a visionary thinker.

He realized that the knowledge of science and scientific temperament were essential for the Muslims to progress. He wanted the MAO College to act as bridge between the East and the West.

"Sir Syed was not oblivious of the values of oriental learning and wanted to preserve and transmit it to posterity the rich legacy of the past", he further added.

AMU Vice Chancellor Professor P.K. Abdul Azis said that Sir Syed strove for removing the cobwebs of ignorance. "Sir Syed wanted all Indians to join hands in removing illiteracy", he said.

Paying rich tributes to Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the Vice Chancellor stressed the need of strengthening the legacy of Sir Syed's large hearted tolerance and unflinching commitment to secularism as his cherished ideals.

Prof. P.K. Abdul Azis said that the present administration of the University stood committed to make AMU an internationally sought-after academic institution.

In order to spread the message of Sir Syed, the University has instituted an international Sir Syed Award for literature.

Eminent Pakistani writer Zakir Ali Khan received the first Sir Syed Award. The Chancellor of AMU, Justice A.M. Ahmadi presented the award to Zakir Ali Khan carrying cash prize of Rs.5 lakhs and a citation.

Zakir Ali Khan expressed his gratitude for the award and donated the entire prize money towards the welfare of AMU students. He asked the students to imbibe the spirit of Aligarh which stipulates to rise to the occasion despite all odds.

Former Chief Justice of India Justice A.M. Ahmadi, the Chancellor of AMU said, "Secularism is the ethos of our country and Sir Syed was an enemy of narrow mindedness".

Prof. Hameeda Ahmad and Prof. A.A. Nizami, Ms. Maria Salman, student of M.Sc. (Biochemistry) and Mr. Abdul Haleem Kidwai, student of B.A. (Economics) also spoke on the occasion.

AMU Pro-Chancellor Mr. Rahmatullah Khan Shervani distributed the prizes of the All India Sir Syed Essay Writing Competition. Prof. Abu Qamar Siddiqui, DSW proposed the vote of thanks.