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Singapore College of Islamic Studies (SCIS) is an upcoming Islamic higher education institution in Singapore, owned and governed by the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS), scheduled to commence operations in 2028.

SCIS is a religious educational institution established by MUIS to groom future religious leaders and prepare students to contribute to the social sector. The college will offer a full-time undergraduate degree program, emphasizing Islamic studies integrated with contemporary disciplines. This innovative approach aims to create a comprehensive educational experience that bridges traditional Islamic scholarship with modern academic knowledge.

History

The establishment of the Singapore College of Islamic Studies was a strategic initiative by MUIS to enhance Islamic education in Singapore. Announced in August 2024, the college represents a significant milestone in the country's religious education landscape. Singapore's Mufti has described the institution as a crucial development, reflecting the nation's commitment to nurturing well-rounded religious leadership.

The announcement garnered significant attention from national leadership. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong highlighted the college's importance, emphasizing its potential to prepare students for leadership roles within religious and social sectors. To ensure comprehensive and global perspectives, the college will collaborate with several established international institutions. These partnerships include the Singapore University of Social Sciences, Egypt's Islamic advisory body Dar al-Ifta, the University of Jordan, and the Al-Qarawiyyin in Morocco. Leaders from these institutions and other universities, such as Al-Azhar in Egypt, will serve on the SCIS advisory panel, contributing their perspectives on contemporary issues impacting Muslim minorities.

Academic Programs

The college will offer a comprehensive undergraduate degree program designed to provide students with a holistic educational experience. The curriculum will integrate traditional Islamic studies with contemporary disciplines, creating a unique academic approach. Students will receive a balanced education that combines deep religious understanding with practical skills relevant to modern society.

Vision and Mission

SCIS's mission is multifaceted and forward-looking. The institution seeks to nurture individuals who are deeply grounded in Islamic scholarship while also being equipped to contribute meaningfully to the broader community. Key objectives include developing leadership capabilities, promoting interfaith understanding, and preparing students to be responsive to the dynamic needs of contemporary society.

Campus and Infrastructure

The college will be located at the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore's learning campus near Bencoolen Mosque. For its inaugural year in 2028, SCIS plans to admit an initial cohort of 60 students. This carefully planned approach allows for a focused and high-quality educational experience that can be gradually expanded in subsequent years.

References

1. Seri Mazliana (21 August 2024). "Upcoming Islamic college is 'major milestone' for religious education in S'pore: Mufti". Mothership.SG.
2. Lee Li Ying (10 November 2024). "New Islamic college to groom religious leaders, those who can contribute to social sector: PM Wong". The Straits Times.
3. "New Islamic college to offer full-time undergraduate degree programme". Channel News Asia. 12 November 2024.
4. "Singapore to establish new Islamic college to nurture future leaders". Middle East Monitor. 19 August 2024.
5. Zhaki Abdullah (12 November 2024). "New Islamic college to open in S'pore by 2028". The Straits Times.

• Islamic universities and colleges
• Higher education in Singapore