DARUL ULOOM NEWCASTLE
School in Newcastle

The uniqueness of Darul Uloom Newcastle can be summarized as follows. It is the first formal institute of Higher Islamic Studies in South Africa. It is the only such institute in which the medium of instruction is via the English language. At its inception, it could easily have been one of a handful of such institutes globally, in which Islamic values and ethos was delivered via the English language. The suggested site was the St. Dominic’s academy (a Roman Catholic Convent), in Newcastle. Negotiations with the Newcastle Municipality and other stakeholders were held regularly over a period of three years before the acquisition of the said site was approved. This process of negotiation eventually resulted in a meeting that was held at the Newcastle Country Club, to discuss ways and means of obtaining the academy. After lengthy deliberations, it was decided that a company made up of fifty donors be formed. A few more months passed after the acquisition of the land, before classes could commence. This was to allow for the necessary renovations to be completed and to ensure the premises were suitable for lodging. For the first three years, Maulana Sema (r.a.) alone taught the students, whilst his wife cooked their food and did their laundry. He attended to all the administration work and other work related to the running of the Darul Uloom. It became known for its ability to accommodate students from all sectors of society. Thus it enabled its graduates to enjoy a position in which they are completely comfortable within orthodox Islamic circles as well as empowering them to persue the academic and secular fields available within the general society. This both as part of the teaching staff and as visitations throughout the years. It is often said and rightfully so that the success of anything can be gauged from the level of its acceptance nationally and internationally as well as how it has withstood the onslaught of time. Since the Darul Uloom has been in existence since 1973 and is growing from strength to strength, this is ample proof in itself not only to the dedication of its current staff but also to the strength of the foundation laid by its founders and well wishers.