Egypt’s Grand Mufti Nazir Mohamed Ayad said that Al Azhar Al Sharif will always remain a destination for students of knowledge worldwide, with international students forming part of Egypt’s soft power in building cultural ties with other nations.
In a lecture to new Thai students in Bangkok, attended by Arun Boonchom, Sheikhul Islam of Thailand, and Egypt’s Ambassador to Thailand Hala Youssef, Ayad described Al-Azhar as a thousand-year-old institution that continues to welcome students from across the world and promote enlightened thought, coexistence, and moderation.
He called on students to set clear goals, value time, and pursue excellence, stressing that Al-Azhar has preserved its global standing by upholding intellectual diversity and balanced scholarship.
Ayad noted that Egypt provides international students with resources and support, viewing them as ambassadors who will return home carrying knowledge and values of peace.
The Mufti also praised the role of Darul Iftaa and the General Secretariat for Fatwa Authorities Worldwide in spreading balanced thinking and strengthening Egypt’s reputation as a leader of moderation.
He concluded by affirming that Thai students in Al-Azhar are part of the deep relationship between Egypt and Thailand and will carry with them the values of knowledge, tolerance, and goodwill.
