Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) Vice Chancellor Prof. Naima Khatoon reviewed preparations for the university’s Sir Syed Day commemorative function on 15 October 2026, during a full rehearsal at Gulistan-e-Syed. The main programme will be held on 17 October to mark the birth anniversary of AMU’s founder, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan.
What happened at the rehearsal
The Vice Chancellor visited the venue, inspected the arrangements and watched the rehearsal of the proceedings. She gave directions for improvements where needed and said she was satisfied with the overall preparations.
“Sir Syed Day is a moment of immense pride and reflection for the entire AMU fraternity,” Prof. Naima Khatoon said. She added that she hoped the function would be conducted smoothly and with the dignity befitting the occasion.
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Those present at the rehearsal included:
- Pro Vice Chancellor Prof M. Mohsin Khan
- Registrar Prof. Aasim Zafar
- Dean of Students’ Welfare Prof. M. Athar Ansari
- CEC Coordinator and Convener, Pandal Committee, Prof Mohammad Rizwan Khan
- OSD to the VC Prof Asfar Ali Khan
- Proctor Prof. Mohd. Nafees Ahmad Ansari
- Deans of faculties, Principals of colleges, Provosts of halls of residence, Member Incharges and other officials
Sir Syed Day 2026 programme on 17 October
According to the university, the celebrations will include traditional observances, an exhibition and a book launch, followed by the main commemorative meeting at Gulistan-e-Syed.
- Chief Guest: Justice Augustine George Masih, Judge of the Supreme Court of India
- Guests of Honour: Justice Satya Veer Singh of the High Court of Judicature at Allahabad, and Rear Admiral S. M. Urooj Athar, Principal of the Indian Naval Academy
- Special Guest: Dr. Faruk G. Patel, Chairman and Managing Director of KP Group
Sir Syed Awards 2026
- Sir Syed International Award: Prof. Hossein Nasr of George Washington University, USA
- Sir Syed National Award: Khaja Bandanawaz Educational Society, Gulbarga, Karnataka
Security arrangements
Proctor Prof. Mohd. Nafees Ahmad Ansari said security arrangements have been updated and all necessary measures are in place for the peaceful conduct of the celebrations. He said the district administration has extended full cooperation in maintaining peace on the campus. Prof. Ansari took charge as Proctor earlier this month; read more in AMU New Proctor: Prof. Nafees Ahmad Ansari Takes Over.
Amar Ujala also reported on the Vice Chancellor’s review of the preparations in its Aligarh edition on 16 October 2026.
For background on the day itself, see Sir Syed Day 2026: Why AMU Celebrates 17 October and How.
FAQ
When is Sir Syed Day 2026?
The main Sir Syed Day function at AMU is on 17 October 2026, the birth anniversary of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan.
Who is the Chief Guest at Sir Syed Day 2026?
Justice Augustine George Masih, Judge of the Supreme Court of India.
Who received the Sir Syed Awards this year?
The International Award goes to Prof. Hossein Nasr of George Washington University, USA, and the National Award to Khaja Bandanawaz Educational Society, Gulbarga, Karnataka.
Source: AMU Public Relations Office, 15 October 2026; Amar Ujala, 16 October 2026.
