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Al-Ansar Foundation: A Beacon of Hope for Muslim Students in UI

Al-Ansar Foundation is a committee of the Muslim Students' Society of Nigeria, University of Ibadan (MSSNUI) dedicated to supporting underprivileged students and providing financial aid to Muslim students on campus, particularly those facing financial hardships. In this conversation with the Chairman of the Foundation, Fawaz Adeyemi, he explores the mission, impact, achievements, and challenges of the foundation.

What is the primary mission of Al-Ansar Foundation?

There are quite a number of them; however, the major highlights are:
1. Supporting underprivileged Muslim students and providing financial aid to Muslim students.
2. Ensuring that indigent and less privileged students see themselves as students and have access to the basic requirements in the university.
3. Decreasing the rate of conversion on campus as a result of financial constraints.
4. Instilling the habit of charitable giving among Muslim students.

Which notable achievement has the foundation accomplished in supporting students?

Alhamdulillah, a lot has been achieved in this regard. Since its inception, the foundation has overseen various projects such as the payment of students’ fees, accommodation fees, disbursement of exam packages, monthly stipends, among others.

Providing food packages to students during exams is commendable. What inspires this initiative?

The inspiration came from the fact that, by that time of the semester, many students would have entered a state of sapa, having exhausted their finances and, most importantly, their foodstuff. This affects their ability to feed well, which in turn impacts their exam preparation. That’s why the Society, through the Al-Ansar Foundation, ensures that exam packages are provided every semester.

Did you receive any feedback regarding the payment of school fees you made last semester?

Yes, quite a number actually, calls from individual parents expressing their appreciation, lots of duas from them, as well as from the beneficiaries themselves. We are also hopeful that, by Allah’s will, we continue the good work, and may Allah, in His infinite mercy, make it easy for us.

What are the programmes you have in stock for students this semester?

The programmes for this semester include the Self-Sustainability Seminar. The monthly stipends will continue, in sha’ Allah, and the examination package will also be provided.

Beyond exam packages and tuition assistance, in what other ways does the foundation help students achieve financial independence?

Yes, we have other means of promoting financial independence among students. One notable initiative is the Self-Sustainability Seminar, which is held once every session. This program is aimed at empowering students financially. We invite established individuals, entrepreneurs, CEOs, etc., to deliver seminars and workshops. After the program, students who are willing to venture into any of the careers are supported both financially and through mentorship.

How does the foundation contribute to the long-term success of the students it supports?

We have a feedback system through which the foundation contacts its beneficiaries to know their current state. This helps ensure that, after receiving financial assistance, the student is also doing well academically or professionally, for those who have chosen a career path.

What are the primary challenges the foundation faces in its operations?

Of course, the number one challenge is funding. The foundation needs funds to effectively carry out its activities. We believe everyone is capable of giving, even if it’s a small amount, so long as it’s for the sake of Allah. There is also the issue of manpower. Beyond the financial aspect, the foundation needs individuals and volunteers who are willing to dedicate their time and energy to its activities. Recruitment is ongoing, and individuals can always join us. It is never too late to work for Allah.

What strategies are in place to address these challenges moving forward?

Well, Allahu-l-musta’an. We believe that increasing awareness of what we do and stand for can go a long way in solving both problems. We have an official X (formerly Twitter) account, which we intend to use more effectively to expand our reach. Also, trending fliers about the foundation and hall visitations, among other strategies, will be explored, In sha Allah.

Are there upcoming initiatives or programs aimed at expanding support for students and enhancing the foundation's impact?

Na'am, in sha' Allah, many more initiatives are to come, and we pray Allah makes it easy.

What message would you like to convey to potential supporters, sponsors, and students interested in engaging with the foundation?

I would just like to tell them that no form of work is a waste, so long as it is done for the sake of Allah.

Allah also loves good deeds done consistently. Therefore, the foundation has donor cards for our potential donors who wish to contribute to the cause, whether weekly, monthly, or at any frequency that is convenient for them.

The foundation is also welcoming new members, not only financially capable individuals but also those passionate about helping those in need or less privileged.

For more enquiries, the official contacts are:
Telephone: 08132071502
Email: alansarfoundationmssnui@gmail.com
X (formerly Twitter): @AL_ANSAR_MSSNUI

Also, those who are willing to donate to the cause of Allah for the current project of the foundation can do so via:
Account Number: 2005481138
Account Name: MSSNUI
Bank: First Bank Plc
Narration: “Al-Ansar”

Jazaakumullahu Khayran.