A dream that shaped generations

In the heart of Poonch rises an institution built not with wealth, but with faith, hard work, and love for the community. What started in 1974 as a small dream inside a tin shed mosque on Hospital Road has, over 50 years, grown into a respected group of institutions called Jamia Zia ul Uloom. This year, it marks its Golden Jubilee, fifty years of rising from a simple maktab to a strong centre of education, social service, and steady influence in the region.

The story cannot be told without its founder, Maulana Ghulam Qadir. A visionary scholar trained at the renowned Darul Uloom Deoband; he had a bright future waiting for him after teaching for five years in Rajasthan. But he made a decision that changed the lives of thousands. Leaving behind every opportunity, he chose to return to his homeland, Poonch, with one clear purpose, to serve his own people.

The early years were filled with hardship. Working out of the Bagyallan Masjid, the institution faced setbacks, criticism, and many challenges. But through difficulties that would have defeated many, Maulana Ghulam Qadir remained firm, always focused on his goal. His steady dedication and rising respect were noticed across the country. He was selected as a member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, served on the State Waqf Board, and became part of the executive body of Jamiat Ulama e Hind, roles that strengthened his leadership skills and widened his influence.

Today, that unwavering commitment has produced results far greater than anyone could have imagined. The single tin shed has grown into a full fledged group of institutions:

Jamia Zia ul Uloom: A thriving seminary for boys with more than 500 students, offering strong religious education and modern hostel facilities.

Jamia Tut Tayibat: A matching institution for girls, guiding and empowering over 500 young women with knowledge and confidence.

Department of School Education: A mainstream educational wing serving more than 2,000 students, bringing religious and modern learning together.

Tanzeem ul Makatib: A network of over 50 maktabs carrying the light of basic education to some of the most remote areas of the region.

Community Infrastructure: The Jamia’s impact is also seen across the landscape through the construction of 32 mosques, which now stand as centres of faith, learning, and community unity.

Adding to its intellectual contributions, Jamia has its own Department of Publications, which for the last 20 years has been publishing a monthly Urdu magazine, Fikr o Nazar, fostering critical thought and dialogue within the community.

But the Jamia’s influence goes far beyond its classrooms. It has become a reliable pillar of social support in every major crisis. Its relief and rehabilitation work is wide, organized, and deeply impactful. In times of natural disasters or community emergencies, the Jamia has always stepped forward, mobilizing volunteers, sending supplies, and offering food, shelter, and medical help. It then follows this with long term support to help affected families rebuild their lives.

This commitment to humanity was clearly seen during the COVID 19 pandemic, when the Jamia set up quarantine centres. It was just as visible during periods of cross border shelling, when it opened its doors to protect and support displaced families.

This strong tradition of social service, combined with its wide educational network, has also given the Jamia and its leaders a quiet but meaningful political influence. By guiding and educating thousands, the institution has helped shape the region’s future, raising a generation of aware, responsible, and thoughtful citizens.

The true proof of the Jamia’s mission is seen in the success of its alumni. From this institution in Poonch have come men and women who have cleared top civil service exams like the JKAS and the UPSC, rising to become leaders and change-makers in administration and public life.

The legacy of Maulana Ghulam Qadir lives not only in the buildings he created but in the values he planted. Today, his sons and daughters are carrying that legacy forward with skill and dedication. They have taken up leadership roles with confidence, blending their father’s vision with modern management and clear direction. Because of their efforts, the Jamia’s mission continues to grow, adapt, and move confidently with the times.

The journey of Jamia Zia ul Uloom is more than an institutional success; it is a story of faith, courage, and clear vision. It reminds us that the strongest foundations are built not from brick and stone, but from conviction and compassion. As it enters its next 50 years, now guided by a vibrant new generation, Jamia Zia ul Uloom continues to stand as a beacon of hope, touching countless lives and proving that even the smallest seed can grow into a mighty forest.