Tradition and Islamic Learning: Singapore Students in the Al-Azhar University

The Al-Azhar University remains the top destination for Southeast Asian students pursuing an Islamic studies degree. The university, built in the last millennium, has been able to withstand competition from modern universities across the globe and continues to produce influential Islamic studies graduates. What are the motivations of students pursuing a degree at Al-Azhar? What are the challenges they face? Are they certain of their future and career opportunities upon their return to Singapore?

This book combines both qualitative and quantitative analysis of former and current students at the Al-Azhar University. It not only hopes to develop more critical analysis of returning Al-Azhar graduates but also attempts to understand the deeper connections between Muslims in Southeast Asia, particularly Singapore, and the Middle East.

• Norshahril Saat, Author

  Norshahril Saat (PhD) is Senior Fellow at the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute, Singapore. He is Coordinator of the Regional Social and Cultural Studies Programme.