Creation of Zahira was not an easy task. The pioneers listed here played a crucial role scarifying their personal resources for a good cause. You may find their portraits adorning the Inner walls of Gaffoor Hall.
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SIDDI LEBBE
Was Proctor by profession. Guide and Leader in propelling the Muslim Community to take up English Education. Was a forerunner in the establishment of the Colombo English Educational Society and the establishment of Zahira College. |
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WAPICHE MARIKAR
Joined Siddi Lebbe and Orabi Pasha in starting the movement for English. Education for Muslims. Donated buildings and rendered ready assistance for the establishment of Zahira College. Was its Manager for 25 years. |
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ORABI PASHA
Egyptian nationalist. Exiled in Ceylon. Became a leader and worker for the cause of Muslims in Sri Lanka. With Siddi Lebbe, spearheaded the movement for English Education in Ceylon. Helped establish Zahira. |
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ABDUL AZEEZ
Managing Trustee of the Maradana Mosque for some years. Involved in the formation of the Muslim Educational Society and worked for the promotion of English Education among Muslims. |
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ABDUL CADER
Proctor and the member of the Colombo Municipal Council. Represented Muslims in the Leglislative Council. Manager of Zahira College after Wapichi Marikar. Obtained grants for Zahira. President of Maradana Mosque Executive Committee for 25 years. |
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ABDUL GAFFOOR
Great benefactor ; Philanthropist ; Social and Religious Worker. Donated necessary funds for the original Science Laboratory of Zahira and the construction of the main building which is named after him. |
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CARIMJEE JAFFERJEE
Contemporary of Wapiche Marikar, Siddi Lebbe and I.L.M. Azeez. Benefactor. Assisted Zahira in many ways. |
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P.B. UMBICHY
Built series of classrooms and provided a playground for Zahira. Great Philanthropist and religious worker. |
