On 2 November 2026, the Hall of Gerda Phillipsborn Centre of Learning resonated with dignity, love, culture and a sense of belonging as Shaagird Foundation celebrated Dignity Day, honouring refugees and members of marginalised communities. At Shaagird Foundation, Dignity Day is observed to recognise the resilience and humanity of communities that have endured years of persecution, displacement and discrimination on account of their identities. The occasion serves as a reminder of the importance of making every individual feel valued, respected and seen.
The event began with a serene recitation of the Holy Quran, filling the hall with a sense of tranquillity. Following the recitation, bouquets were presented as a gesture of gratitude and welcome to the chief guest, Mr. C.K. Subair, National Secretary, Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), and Aasif Mujtaba, Founder and Director of Shaagird Foundation. Following this, Muhammad Imran, a student from the Nuh Learning Centre, took to the stage to present a Naat, filling the gathering with warmth and devotion. “The voice is so beautiful, so mesmerising,” remarked a child from the audience, watching the performance with a bright smile. The programme then moved to a cultural performance by refugee students, showcasing their heritage, traditions, love for their homeland and enduring sense of belonging.
“We will always have immense love for our home country and our culture, which we have been deprived of,” said a refugee student. Reflecting on the significance of the performance, a teacher from the Nuh Learning Centre said, “We have been deprived of what we truly love. We have faced immense hardship. And this performance is truly in remembrance of our culture and our yearning for our homeland.” Following the cultural presentation, students of the Gerda Phillipsborn Centre of Learning performed a group presentation to the song “Hum Betiyan Islam Ki Betiyan”. Dressed in colourful outfits, the young girls performed with expressive gestures, celebrating the dignity, respect and place accorded to women in Islam. Their confident presentation drew the attention of fellow students and guests, culminating in a warm round of applause from the audience.
Continuing the performances, Isbaa Parveen, a student of the Bi Amma Learning Centre, took the microphone to present the Naat “Dil Mein Ishq-e-Nabi Ki Ho Aisi Lagan”. Her heartfelt rendition and confidence on stage captivated the audience.
Report Card and Certificate Distribution
As the performances concluded, the programme moved to another important segment: the Report Card and Certificate Distribution Ceremony. Throughout the academic term, students at the learning centres had worked diligently towards their studies and personal development. Their progress was recognised through the distribution of report cards.
Students were invited onto the stage one by one and presented with their report cards. Shortly afterwards, certificates were distributed among participants in recognition of their contributions to the event and their efforts in making the celebration memorable. Moving forward, Aasif Mujtaba, Founder and Director of Shaagird Foundation, addressed the gathering and shared words of encouragement and solidarity. “Refugees are the most persecuted. Their living conditions, literacy levels, and health indicators are among the worst. Yet, we have stopped speaking up for them. We remain silent until the oppression is directed at us,” Mujtaba said.
“As long as we do not stand against the oppressor and alongside the oppressed, we will continue to face oppression ourselves,” he added. “This centre stands as a testament to the fact that even today, there are people who dare to stand against oppression and alongside the oppressed,” Mujtaba said.
“The growth and success of this centre today are a result of the collective support and efforts of each one of you,” he added. Following his address, the chief guest, Mr. C.K. Subair, National Secretary of the Indian Union Muslim League, shared his remarks with the students and attendees.
“Every human being has the ability to overcome challenges and achieve greatness,” he said. “Although refugees often begin life in difficult circumstances, this centre, by the will of Allah, will open doors to new opportunities and help you build a brighter future,” he added. The event concluded with a felicitation ceremony, during which the chief guest was presented with a shawl as a mark of respect and appreciation for his presence.
Through Dignity Day, Shaagird Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to recognising the dignity of refugees and marginalised communities, celebrating their cultural identities and creating spaces where children can learn, express themselves and envision a future filled with opportunities.
