A world-class institute of higher education inspired by the teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the wisdom of the earliest generations of Muslims.
To develop scholars and leaders grounded in Islamic knowledge, intellectual depth, strong character, and a clear sense of responsibility.
To shape a modern model of higher education inspired by Prophet Muhammad and the earliest Muslim generations. We prepare scholars to meet contemporary challenges with sound knowledge, judgement, and a firm grounding in authentic tradition
Learn to approach complex questions with evidence, judgement, and the confidence to think beyond memorised answers.
At the School of Islamic Scholars & Leaders, the Fikrmand philosophy brings case studies, discussion, and problem-solving into Islamic scholarship. Students learn to analyse arguments, question assumptions, and connect classical knowledge with contemporary issues.
Work through real situations that place Islamic principles in context and strengthen practical understanding.
Explore different perspectives, test your reasoning, and develop stronger arguments through thoughtful academic exchange.
Apply what you study to complex questions and build the judgement needed for independent scholarly thinking.
Knowledge carries greater weight when it shapes how you think, act, and serve. These values guide learning across the School of Islamic Scholars & Leaders.
Study the Islamic sciences through recognised texts, scholarly tradition, and the intellectual foundations that have shaped Muslim learning for generations.
Learn to question carefully, weigh evidence, and approach complex issues with sound reasoning rather than memorised answers.
Carry your learning into communities that need thoughtful scholars, responsible leadership, and a sincere commitment to meaningful contribution.
Nurturing noble character traits inspired by the Prophet ﷺ and the earliest Muslims.
At SISL Karachi, our students pursue Islamic scholarship alongside recognised university education. Each study pathway supports deeper learning and continued academic progression.
Our University Affiliation
The School of Islamic Scholars & Leaders (SISL operates under Al-Kawthar University, an Islamic university in Karachi, offering recognised higher education alongside Islamic studies. Our students can choose from different academic pathways based on the depth and direction they want to pursue.
Post-graduation pathways include pursuing a 2-year Mufti Degree or advancing to PhD studies with full HEC recognition.
The President, School of Islamic Scholars & Leaders
Ustadh Asim Ismail brings nearly two decades of experience across Islamic education, institutional development, publishing, and social impact.
His work has taken him to more than 22 countries, where he has supported schools and educational organisations through training, consultation, and institutional development.
Before leading SISL Karachi, he helped develop Al-Kawthar University during its formative years. His work contributed to its academic direction, educational vision, and institutional framework.
Today, he leads the School of Islamic Scholars & Leaders, bringing together scholarship, leadership, and contemporary Islamic thought. His wider work spans education, social development, research, media, and initiatives serving Muslim communities.
He is also the founder and CEO of Alwasila Trust, whose first social service project began sixteen years ago and has now expanded to 14 projects across six countries, serving communities through education, welfare, and development initiatives.
For the first three years of its establishment, Ustadh Asim was the developer and head of Al-Kawthar University, where he helped shape its academic direction, vision, and institutional framework.
He currently serves as the Head of the School of Islamic Scholars & Leaders (SISL), which offers both onsite and online degrees and courses. Under SISL fall several major initiatives, including, Centre for Contemporary Muslim Response & Policy (CCMRP), Ilmverse AI, and Faith & Future Summit, all are aimed at developing scholarship, leadership, and contemporary Islamic thought for the modern world.
In addition, he is the founder of Jinn TV, a purpose-driven media platform producing meaningful Islamic and educational content for global audiences, especially youth and families.
"Success is not in how much we build for this world, but in how much we build for the next—through the lives we uplift, the knowledge we spread, and the sincerity we carry in our intentions."
M.Phil in English Linguistics
PhD. Doctor
