By Samsideen Ceesay
Islamic Online University, IOU Friday marked ten years since its founding in the Gambia.
The ceremony held at its global headquarters in Kanifing South, the theme of the celebration was ‘the use of the internet in seeking authentic knowledge’.
Speaking, founder and chancellor, Dr Bilal Philips gave a highlight on the advent of the OIU.
“The IOU was set up back in 2007 as free diploma Islamic studies programs. Back in 2007 until today we have now more than three hundred thousand students. The university has achieved unimaginable success with regard to spreading its messages globally,” Mr Philips observed.
He added: “We have more than two hundred and twenty eight different countries where students come from virtually all countries on the phase of the earth have produced students who are studying in Islamic Online University free program.”
He mentioned several success stories his university has registered in the past years.
“In 2014 our first batch of bachelors in Islamic studies graduated.”
Momodou Sabally, guest speaker, said the quest to seek authentic knowledge whether online or offline is in itself Ibadah.
The former GRTS director added: “The opportunities that are online are huge but so are the challenges. The volume of the knowledge in internet is growing exponentially and the evolution continues.
“Islamic online university and its project of teaching of authentic knowledge online is in the cutting edge as far as higher education is concerned”.
He said: “If you want to seek authentic knowledge online then you must not be lazy”.
Aminata Jaiteh, IOU country representative also echoed similar remarks.
