Islamic Da'wah Academy Leicester

Islamic Da'wah Academy/Masjid (Islamic Studies Higher Education/Mosque) is situated in Highfields, Leicester.

Introduction

The Islamic Da‘wah Academy, commonly known as the IDA, was founded to facilitate a greater understanding and awareness of the teachings of Islam. It aims to educate people from all walks of life, and especially young Muslims, in all aspects of their religious development. Since its inception in 1991, the Academy has grown into an internationally recognised institute of academic excellence and religious revival. Under the guidance of its founder, the respected scholar and lecturer, Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullah, the Academy has continued to progress to achieve its aim of helping to create the Muslims of tomorrow.

At present the Academy provides a multifaceted service catering for the diverse and unique needs of Muslims living in the west. Throughout the years, the Academy has targeted its activities primarily at the Muslim youth, who traditionally lacked access to Islamic services. Via its various projects and schemes the Academy continues to strive to help the new generation of Muslims channel their energies and capabilities appropriately; enabling young people to become individuals who are assets for society as a whole. The responses received from the Academy’s various beneficiaries and the endorsement of the Academy’s work by leading scholars of the Islamic world is, alhamdulillah, a sign that facilities such as the Academy’s are an essential contribution to current Islamic services.

The building was used to be in an old church, now at present it has re-constructed into a 4 floor building with modern standards and facilities.

History

1991

Founded by the respected Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullah. Focus on literature production & distribution, shar‘ee advice and counselling. Hifz class started in the house of Shaykh's Father, Haafiz Ibraaheem Dhorat rahmatullahi alayh. Launched the Islamic journal 'Riyadul Jannah'.

1992

Pioneered the delivery of the commentary of the Qur’an and lessons of Hadith in the English language. First national Youth Conference for the English speaking youth.

1993

The Islamic Da‘wah Academy moves into 186 Melbourne Road to cater for increased demands on its services. First ever part-time course started by Madrasah Riyadul Qur’an - designed for those involved in secular education. Sawtul Haq Library comes into force to provide public access to Islamic literature in English and Urdu languages.

1994

Madrasah Riyadul Qur’an begins 13+ classes, providing an opportunity for post-maktab children to further their religious learning.

1995

First Hafiz of the Glorious Qur‘an from the Islamic Da‘wah Academy. Islamic Da‘wah Academy organises a UK tour of authentic Ulama, providing the community with the opportunity to benefit from their company and knowledge. First ever 5-day Hajj seminar for the benefit of intending pilgrims.

1996

Purchase of former St Hilda’s church on Melbourne Road. This new site allowed for an expansion of the IDA's activities. First Annual Sisters’ Gathering. First tarbiyyah 3-day trip for Muslim youth. Initiation of Muslim burial related project - which led to the establishment of the Muslim Burial Council of Leicestershire (MBCOL).

1998

Da‘wah Book Centre established. 500 renowned Ulama attend the European Ulama seminar. First gathering for professionals. A new initiative in the form of a 7-day workshop designed to train Ulama to teach visually impaired Muslim children.

1999

Purchase of Spinney Hill Lodge situated on Melbourne Road. Founding of Jame‘ah Riyadul Uloom, a full-time boarding Darul Uloom for UK and foreign students.

2001

The book of hadeeth, Mishkatul Masaabeeh reaches completion at Jame‘ah Riyadul Uloom. The Islamic Da‘wah Academy’s official website launched for the benefit of English speaking Muslims. Darul Iftaa expertise enhanced by the arrival of a qualified Mufti from Darul Uloom Karachi. 10 year anniversary of the Academy

2003

Shaykhul Hadeeth Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullah starts teaching Saheehul Bukhari. Former Chief Justice of Pakistan Mufti Taqi Uthmani hafizahullah imparts the last lesson leading to the completion of Saheehul Bukhari. The first class of students graduate from Jame‘ah Riyadul Uloom.

2004

Establishment of Riyadus Salihat - offering sisters the opportunity to pursue ‘Alimiyyah Course as well as further Islamic studies.

2005

After an intensive period of research and consultation, the Academy secured planning permission for the re-development of the Al Faruq site (former St Hilda's site).

2006

Demolition work commenced at the site in March. The annual ‘Crossing Divides’ seminar inaugurated to facilitate wider interaction and foster greater understanding, between the various sectors of the community.

2007

Work in progress on the IDA's new £4,000,000 million construction. The project is forecast to be completed by mid-June 2008, insha'allah.

2008

Opening Ceremony of New IDA's new construction was held on Thursday 10th July 2008.

Types of Schooling

Jame'ah Riy'adul Uloom - Full-time Boys (Aalim Courses).

Riy'adus Sali'hat - Full-time Girls (Aalimah Courses).

Madrasah Riy'adul Quraan - Part-time Boys (Evening Classes).