Educational institutions have a central role to play in the preservation of culture and social heritage, TUM Vice Chancellor, Prof. Laila Abubakar, has said.
Giving her keynote address at the 2nd International Al-Istiqama Conference held at City Blue Hotel, Mombasa, Prof Laila said schools are effective and reliable transmitters of culture from older generations to the new generations particularly in an increasingly interconnected world, such as that of the Arab and Swahili cultures that define Kenyan coast and larger East Africa.
The VC paid homage to the "visionary" pioneers of institutions such as the Mombasa Institute of Muslim Education (MIOME), which evolved to Mombasa Polytechnic and later became the Technical University of Mombasa (TUM), as we have it today.
“Educational institutions must preserve our rich cultural heritage while preparing future generations to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world,” she noted.
She pointed out the TUM’s motto, “Jiddu Tajiddu” (Endeavor and Achieve), observing that it reflects the values of determination, resilience, scholarship, and innovation that have historically characterized both the Omani and Swahili peoples.
The 2nd International Al-Istiqama Conference brought together scholars, researchers, linguists, historians, cultural experts, and students to examine the historical and cultural ties between Omanis and Swahili communities under the theme, “Omanis and Swahili: Between Influence and Mutual Interaction.”
The event was organized by the International Al-Istiqama Muslim Charitable Association, headquartered in the Sultanate of Oman.
The conference provided a platform for dialogue on the shared heritage, intellectual exchange, as well as trade, language, and cultural interactions that have shaped the East African coast for centuries.
The event commenced with a recitation of the Holy Qur’an, followed by the screening of a documentary highlighting the history and achievements of Al-Istiqama, and welcoming remarks by Eng Abdulwahab bin Suleiman Al Busaidi.
The TUM VC further noted that the history explored during the conference demonstrates that progress emerges through dialogue, collaboration, and mutual learning rather than isolation.
Drawing inspiration from centuries of interaction across the Indian Ocean, she called for stronger partnerships in higher education, research, technology, entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation.
The conference featured presentations from distinguished regional and international scholars and leaders who systematically examined the historical, linguistic, and cultural connections between Oman and the Swahili Coast.
Other keynote speakers included Dr Abuyaasir Mbwarali Kame, the education CECM of the County Government of Mombasa.
Dr Kame highlighted the historical role of Arabic script in education, literature, and religious scholarship, while emphasizing ongoing efforts to preserve and promote Arabic writing traditions in Africa.
Another speaker Mr Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the Grand Mufti of Uganda, explored the historical relationship between Arabic, Islam, and Swahili culture, noting the significant role language played in shaping the region’s identity.
On his part, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud Al-Siyabi underscored the importance of documenting Omani and Muslim contributions to East Africa, calling for balanced historical narratives that recognize achievements in education, governance, agriculture, and cultural development.
The conference also featured academic presentations on migration patterns, linguistic exchanges, historical narratives, and language policies that shaped relations between Oman and East Africa.
As an institution rooted in the rich history of the Swahili Coast, TUM remains committed to participating in scholarly engagements that promote cultural understanding, preserve historical heritage, and advance research and innovation for sustainable development.
