At 31, a medical graduate will usually have dreams of pursuing his practice, probably even setting up a hospital or a clinic. But for Dr Mumtaz Ahmed Khan, that was the age and the qualification, when he surprisingly chose humanitarianism. Khan did his MBBS from Madras University, Chennai in 1963.
After getting married he continued his postgraduate studies, MS specialising in surgery from Stanley Medical College, Chennai. But in 1966, at the age of 31, he went ahead with his vision to light the lamp of learning in the heart of those who were deprived of the opportunity. He founded the Al- Ameen Movement.
Bidding adieu to his medical profession, he dedicated his life towards building educational institutions. Though today, it is renowned as Al-Ameen Educational Society, he had to face several obstacles right from the beginning.
To start a college, he had no land, building or required funds. He then pitched upon the old bungalow of his father-in-law and put his personal fund. At this juncture, a few associates also encouraged the idea of starting a college.
Ghulam Ahmed, a retired Professor of Sociology, Central College came forward to become the principal. A few other enlightened souls extended support and the college became a reality in Bangalore.
Today, the movement has 35 nursery and primary schools, 25 high schools, 3 degree colleges, a teacher training institute, a law college, a college of education, a pharmacy college, a college of management, an orphanage besides other institutions under various other banners, especially Founder Secretary Ghousia College of Engineering, Ramanagaram.
There are institutions established in other parts of the country too, especially Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and West Bengal.
According to Dr B M Zakir, Principal, Al-Ameen Pre-University College, Dr Mumtaz Ahmed Khan has set an example par excellence as to how one dedicated person can pave the way for bright careers for hundreds and thousands of people.
“His secular approach, friendly nature and belief in team effort has reflected throughout his career. No wonder, his efforts has been recognised and he has won several awards including Rajyotsava and Kempegowda awards,” said Dr Zakir.
Recently, Dr Mumtaz Ahmed Khan was honoured by his Holiness Dr Sree Sree Siddalinga Swamiji, Sri Siddaganga mutt, Tumkur. He was also presented with a Doctorate award 'Doctor of Literature' by Dr H R Bharadwaj, Governor of Karnataka for his services in the filed of education from Tumkur University, on the occasion of the 5th Annual Convocation.
In commemoration of his services, his birthday is celebrated as Founder's Day on the 6th of September, every year.