The Woman Who Founded the World's First University: Fatima al-Fihri

Fatima al-Fihri, who lived in the 9th century, led the foundation of the University of al-Qarawiyyin, recognized as one of the world’s oldest educational institutions. Her story illustrates the immense value of knowledge and how it grows when shared.

Fatima and Maryam (generated by AI)

🧑‍🧑‍🧒 Childhood and Family

City of Fes (generated by AI)

Fatima al-Fihri grew up as a curious child from an early age. She loved reading and was eager to learn. Her father, a wealthy merchant, provided her and her sister with a high-quality education. As a result, Fatima al-Fihri and her sibling received instruction in Islamic law and hadith.

🗺️Geographical Context

Fatima al-Fihri was born in Kairouan, a city located within today’s borders of Tunisia. Later, her family moved to Fes in Morocco. Both cities are in North Africa. By the 9th century, Fes had emerged as a major center of trade and education.

📍The Significance of Fes

Fes is one of Morocco’s most important cities. Trade and cultural life flourished there. People from different regions gathered in Fes to exchange knowledge. For this reason, Fes became a vital center for those seeking education.

📚 Education in the 9th Century

In the 9th century, science and education rapidly expanded across the Islamic world. Mosques were not only places of worship but also centers of learning. People traveled from different cities to attend lectures and acquire knowledge. This environment fostered the emergence of new educational institutions.

Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque (generated by AI)

🕌Construction of the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque

Fatima al-Fihri did not use her inheritance from her father for personal needs. Instead, she chose to invest it in enabling others to learn. In 859, she funded the construction of the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque. Over time, this mosque evolved into a center of learning. It is said that during the construction, Fatima al-Fihri observed fasting.

🎓The Birth of an Educational Institution

Regular educational activities gradually developed around the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque. The structure became a permanent institution dedicated to continuous learning. Al-Qarawiyyin is recognized as one of the world’s oldest educational institutions. Many scholars taught there, and countless students received their education.

Al-Qarawiyyin University (AA)

🏫The Importance of Al-Qarawiyyin University

Al-Qarawiyyin University predates renowned institutions such as Bologna and Oxford. It has continued to provide education for centuries. Its survival into the present day underscores its enduring significance.

Fatima al-Fihri (generated by AI)

📦Concept Box: What Is a University?

A university is an institution where people receive education in various fields and generate new knowledge. In the past, such educational activities largely took place in mosques.

⏳Timeline

• In the 9th century Fatima al-Fihri is born.
• In 859 Fatima al-Fihri funds the construction of the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque.
• In subsequent centuries Al-Qarawiyyin grows into a major center of learning.

If you were in her position, what kind of place would you create to enable people to learn?