The Holy Quran teaches us the importance of continuous effort and adaptability in the face of changing circumstances. Allah says in Surah Ar-Ra'd, verse 11: "Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves." This implies that progress and growth require constant effort and willingness to adapt to new situations.
By emphasizing interdisciplinary research, embracing innovation, and adapting to environmental changes, Faculty of Life Sciences and Informatics embodies the spirit of continuous improvement that the Quran encourages. The focus on producing impactful research and fostering a sense of community aligns with the Islamic values of striving for knowledge and contributing to the betterment of society.
The faculty’s structure, with its emphasis on a wide range of biological studies, from molecules to ecosystems, echoes the Quran's call to explore and understand the natural world. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 164, Allah reminds us of the signs in creation: "Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth...are signs for people who use reason." Faculty of Life Sciences and Informatics commitment to studying organic chemistry, molecular biology, genetics, genomics, cell biology, developmental biology, ecology, and evolution aligns with this call to explore and understand the signs in nature.
Furthermore, the collaborative and innovative approach by the three departments of faculty of life sciences and informatics reflects the Quranic value of teamwork and collective effort. Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 2, instructs us: "...help one another in goodness and piety, but do not help one another in sin and aggression." Our focus on building partnerships and fostering collaboration among students and faculty demonstrates this value.
In the capacity of Dean Faculty of Life Sciences, I am struggling and would expect an environment that values knowledge, seeks continuous improvement, and aims to benefit humanity. What attributes do we seek in prospective students and researchers, and how do we promote the Quranic ideals of knowledge, community, and collaboration within our faculty?
May Allah grant us success in our endeavours, and may our faculty and institution continue to be a beacon of knowledge and advancement.