A Legacy Sustained by Waqf
Al-Azhar University
Established in 975 CE in Cairo, Egypt, Al-Azhar University stands as one of the world’s oldest and most distinguished centres of learning. Its longevity and global impact are underpinned by the waqf funding model that has enabled centuries of free and accessible education.
For over a thousand years, waqf has sustained Al-Azhar, ensuring free and accessible education for generations.
The Power of Waqf in Education
From its earliest days, Al-Azhar was supported by generous endowments from philanthropists and rulers. These contributions funded the university’s infrastructure, operations, and scholarships, making education accessible to students from diverse backgrounds. This financial independence has allowed Al-Azhar to flourish as a hub of intellectual, spiritual, and cultural development for over a millennium.
Global Reach and Achievements
She gave birth to nine children, seven sons and two daughters, all fathered by Sultan Süleyman 1. Of all her children, we must single out her son Selim who succeeded his father and became Sultan Selim Il and her daughter Mihrimah who is remembered as the most influential female figure of Ottoman history.
Al-Azhar University is not just a historic institution; it is a living testament to the transformative power of waqf. Its enduring legacy offers a roadmap for educational sustainability, equity, and excellence, inspiring institutions around the world to follow in its footsteps.
