NISWAN SCHOOL

Madarsa-e-Niswan-                  Melvisharam

(A Unique Institution for Girls’ Education)

Establishment

Madarsa-e-Niswan, Melvisharam, stands as one of the oldest and most distinguished institutions dedicated to the religious and academic education of Muslim girls in South India. For more than eight decades, it has played a vital role in shaping the intellectual, moral, and spiritual character of young women, while preserving and promoting Islamic values. 

During the last quarter of the nineteenth century, when opportunities for girls’ education were gradually emerging in institutions such as Azeez Bhai School, the Board School, and Madarsa-e-Khaire Jaree, the visionary leaders of Melvisharam realized the need for a separate institution exclusively devoted to girls’ education. This foresight led to the establishment of Madarsa-e-Niswan in 1941 under the auspices of Anjuman-e-Ansarul Islam. It was the first madarsa in Melvisharam specially founded for girls.

The institution was initially housed in a building that had earlier functioned as an orphanage whose brief history is recorded below.

“Janab Sakvai Haji Abdullah Sahib established an orphanage and constructed a fine building at present day Niswan Street (Sakvai Haji Meera Sahib Street). Hazrath Moulana Hafiz Malak Gulzar Ahmed Sahib narrates from his uncle Janab Malack Ehsanullah Sahib who was the son-in-law of Janab Sakvai Haji Abdullah Sahib, that the orphanage housed about 40 to 50 orphans. The entire expenses were borne by the founder along with his eldest son, Janab Sakvai Mohammed Ismail Sahib alias 'C M'. The orphanage functioned for nearly ten years. However, in the late 1920s, following heavy losses incurred by Sakvai Haji Abdullah & Co, it was relocated. Subsequently, the orphanage building was purchased by Janab Sepillai Abdul Wahab Sahib for a sum of Rs. 1,800.  In 1941, Anjuman-e-Ansarul Islam established Madarsa e Niswan which is functioning successfully till date.” (Source: This information shared by Hazrath Moulana Hafiz Malak Gulzar Ahmed Sahib (DBM) from his Personal Diary)

Janab Sepillai Abdul Wahab Sahib, the founder and first President of the Madarsa, devoted his entire life to its development. He generously contributed towards its construction, maintenance, and financial stability, and also dedicated a separate building to serve as a permanent source of income. He passed away in 1961, leaving behind a strong and lasting legacy.

Teachers

The curriculum of the Madarsa was designed jointly by Hazrath Moulana Abu Sawood Sahib (Rah) and Janab Seppillai Abdul Wahab Sahib. Great care was taken in selecting pious and devoted women teachers. Among the early educators were Mohatarma Rameeza Bee Ustadbi, sister of Hazrath Moulana Abu Sawood Sahib, and Ammaji Ustadbi Sahiba, wife of Allama Mahvi Hussain Siddiqui Bhopali. These teachers imparted religious instruction in strict accordance with Islamic principles. Following in these noble scholars, devoted and exemplary teachers such as Muhatarma Zaibunnisa Sahiba (with 44 years of selfless service), Muhatarma Sharfunnisa Sahiba (35 years of dedicated service), and Muhatarma Shaakira Jaan Sahiba, fondly known as the ‘Badey Teacher’ (still serving for 50 years), have illuminated this institution with their lifelong commitment, love, and sincerity in shaping numerous young lives.

Curriculum

The core curriculum includes the Holy Quran, Hadith, Quranic translation, Fiqh, Arabic grammar, Urdu, Tamil, Mathematics, and English. From its inception, special emphasis has been placed on Quranic education. As a result, most students complete the recitation of the Quran (Nazira) within their first two years of study.

Academic Council

An Academic Council, consisting of learned women who are alumni of the institution, supervises and evaluates the quality of teaching and learning. In its early decades, the Madarsa had the privilege of guidance and supervision from eminent scholars such as Sheikhul Islam Hazrath Moulana Hussain Ahmed Madani (Rah) and Hazrath Moulana Qari Tayyab (Rah), who also recorded their valuable observations in the visitors’ diary.

Awarding of Certificates (SANADS)

          Initially, the madarsa offered courses from kindergarten to 7^th Standard, later it was reduced to 6^th and 5^th Standard. After the completion of studies in the Madarsa, the students were awarded certificates and medals. It is to be noted that during the initial days, silver medals were awarded to the students.  

                    

         Old certificate issued during early 1970s

Growth and Progress

Owing to its reputation and distinctive features, the Madarsa began attracting students from neighbouring towns. To meet the growing demand, the management decided in 1997 to establish two new branches. The branch on C. Abdul Hakeem Road (Kathiawadi Road) was inaugurated on 20 July 1998 after the Fajr prayer by Hazrath Moulana Mohammed Yacoob Sahib (Rah). The Pudupet branch, located opposite to Anjuman E Muaiyyidul Islam (Yatheem Khana) campus, was inaugurated on 15 November 1998 after the Asr prayer by Hazrath Moulana Khaleel Ahmed Sahib (Rah). Both branches continue to function successfully.

Introduction of Hifz E Quran Course

During 2002–2003, for the first time in Melvisharam, Hifz-e-Quran course was introduced. An experienced teacher, wife of Hazrath Moulana Abdul Wajid Sahib (DBM) from Mysore, was appointed to conduct the Hifz classes. So far, hundreds of girls had completed Hifz E Quran and this institution holds a unique position in our locality for this course. The course remains active and students are selected on the basis of merit.

Infrastructural Development

Until 1990s, the management arranged bullock carts with proper purdah facilities to transport students to the Madarsa. Over time, these traditional arrangements were replaced by modern means of transportation.

In 2008, the old building of the main branch was demolished and replaced with a new structure. In 2020, teachers specializing in English and the State Board syllabus were appointed, further strengthening the institution’s academic profile.

Founders and Patrons

Apart from the founder Janab S. Abdul Wahab Sahib, the Madarsa has benefited from the generous support of numerous patrons and donors who contributed both financially and morally. Some of them are Janab Chinmeera Fakheer Mohammed Sahib, Janab Vaverthar Abdul Haseeb Sahib, Janab Puttu Mohammed Basha Sahib, Pakthini Meera Hussain Sahib, Malack Khizar Hussain Sahib, Janab S. M. Abdul Jameel Sahib, Janab Arcot Mohammed Ismail Sahib, Janab Ayilam Mohammed Safiullah Sahib, Janab Arcot Ahmed Basha Sahib, and Malack Mohammed Hashim Sahib etc.,

In addition, Mrs. Arcot Ahmed Basha Sahib played a significant role in the development of the institution over recent decades through her steadfast commitment to girls’ education. Through her dedication, she not only enhanced the quality of education but also worked tirelessly to strengthen the institution’s infrastructure and financial stability.

At present, Janab Sakvai Ziauddin Ahmed Sahib (President), Janab Gumus Mohammed Kalimullah Sahib (Secretary), Janab Arcot Rafeeque Ahmed Sahib (Treasurer) and a team of dedicated members has been serving the Madarsa now.

Principals

For many years, Janab Moulana Khaleelur Rahman Sahib served as Principal with dedication. Hazrath Moulana Khaleel Ahmed Sahib of Vaniyambadi, appointed in 1987, led the institution for nearly three decades, maintaining the high standards set by its founders. He passed away on 5 April 2008.

Currently, Hazrath Hafiz Ashraf Ali Sahib (DBM) serves as Principal, and Janab Moulana Abdun Nasir Sahib (DBM) as Vice-Principal. Supported by a devoted team of teachers, the institution continues to uphold its tradition of excellence.

Upgradation

Until 2025-26, after the completion of the 5th Standard at the Madarsa, students move on to either Islamiah Girls’ Higher Secondary School or K.H. Girls’ Matriculation School, Melvisharam for further studies. Through the tireless efforts, dedication, and vision of the management, this noble institution has been elevated to the status of a Matriculation School in 2026 and proudly renamed as Ansaarul Islam Girls Matriculation School. Notably, the efforts of Hazrath Moulana Malack Mohammed Ibrahim Sahib and Janab Gumus Mohammed Kalimullah Sahib are highly commendable, as they strove day in and day out for the accomplishment of this landmark. In February 2026, the other two branches of the Madarsa have also been renamed as Niswan Girls’ Nursery and Primary School.

Today, 1700 girls are studying (including two branches) and about 70 teaching and non-teaching staff are serving in this institution. From the academic year 2025–26, the introduction of the 6th standard marks another historic step forward in its mission.  

Conclusion

This school stands as a unique and model institution for girls, having completed more than 85 years of dedicated service to girls’ education.  It continues to play a crucial role not only in imparting knowledge but also in nurturing strong Islamic values among its students. 

The noble women of Melvisharam are the true guardians of our Islamic atmosphere, nurturing faith, values, and character within their homes and hearts. Through their sacrifices, prayers, and dedication, they shape generations. Hence, the community is highly grateful to this Madarsa for sustaining the moral fabric of the Islamic Society and bringing out cultured students.

May Allah, with His infinite mercy, bless its founders, patrons, teachers, staff, students, and well-wishers, and grant lasting success to this noble institution. May Allah accept its services and reward in abundance to everyone connected with this institution.    Aameen

Note: For any additional information or corrections please contact 9344376199

S. Mohammed Sadathullah

                                                        Melvisharam

   

  8^th March, 2026 (19^th Ramazan 1447)