Shaykh Abdal Hakim Murad, Founder of Cambridge Muslim College, sat down with former student Shaykh Muhammad Qamar to reflect on his time at the College, his journey since graduation, and the future of Muslim leadership in the UK. In this interview, Shaykh Muhammad shares insights from his work in Birmingham and Yemen, and offers advice to prospective students and aspiring imams.


Q1: Salaam alaykum. Can you introduce yourself and your connection to Cambridge Muslim College?
A: Wa alaykum salaam. My name is Muhammad Qamar, I’m from Birmingham, and I was part of the first Contextual Islamic Studies and Leadership programme cohort at Cambridge Muslim College (CMC) in 2009, alhamdulillah.

Q2: How was your experience at CMC?
A: My experience at CMC was incredibly beneficial. I gained a lot from the teachers, the lectures, and the courses. I’ve been able to apply that knowledge throughout my career as an imam, teacher, and community leader.

Q3: What was the highlight of your time at CMC? What memories stand out?
A: One of the key highlights was visiting different institutions and organisations. We met various people who were active in da’wah and teaching, and who were supporting communities. That exposure left a lasting impact.

Q4: What happened after you left CMC?
A: After leaving CMC, I pursued further academic studies and completed my master’s at the University of Birmingham. At the same time, I began teaching Islamic studies to both children and adults in the community.

Q5: Based on your experience, what are the needs of the Muslim community in Birmingham today?
A: One of the biggest needs is for more imams who are both grounded in traditional Islamic knowledge and trained in Western academia. We need leaders who can understand and engage with the lived realities of British Muslim communities.

Q6: How do you think CMC can continue to support the training of imams and Muslim leaders?
A: CMC plays a crucial role in preparing imams for service, especially in places like Birmingham, where most of the younger generation speak English. There’s no longer the same need for imams who only speak languages from the subcontinent. CMC helps fill that gap.

Q7: Is there anyone else doing similar work to CMC?
A: I believe CMC is unique in its approach. Its training and development for imams is outstanding. Over the years, I’ve seen the benefit it brings to those who have studied there – many of whom are now serving the wider community.

Q8: What do you think will be the biggest challenges facing the Muslim community in the UK in the coming years?
A: A major challenge is the lack of imams who can relate to people’s lived experiences here in the UK. The community needs leaders who are trained to navigate the specific circumstances we face in British society.

Q9: What knowledge or skills are British imams still lacking, and how can CMC help address this?
A: British imams need a holistic understanding of different communities, cultures, and backgrounds. CMC is ideally placed to provide this, so that imams are fully prepared to engage with and support their communities effectively.

Q10: In your view, is CMC succeeding in upgrading the skills of Muslim leaders in the UK?
A: Yes, absolutely. CMC is doing an excellent job. I’ve seen first-hand how graduates are benefiting their communities across the UK.

Q11: You’re currently teaching in Yemen. Can you tell us more about that?
A: I’m currently teaching at Dar al-Mustafa in Yemen, working with Western students and others from around the world. I teach in both Arabic and English, translate, and help students settle in. Alhamdulillah, it’s been a truly rewarding experience.

Q12: What advice would you give to those thinking of studying in Yemen? What are the pros and cons?
A: I’ve been in Yemen for four years now. I often tell people who ask about studying there that the best thing is to come and see it for themselves. Experience it first-hand rather than relying on hearsay.

Q13: What do most of your students go on to do after studying at Dar al-Mustafa?
A: It varies depending on where they’re from, but many aspire to return home and serve their communities. Some also aim to continue their studies at institutions like Cambridge Muslim College.

Q14: What’s next for you? Do you plan to return to the UK?
A: Yes, insha’Allah. I hope to return to the UK, continue my academic studies, and serve the community further.

Q15: Finally, what advice would you give to someone considering studying at CMC – whether that’s the Classical Arabic programme, or the Contextual Islamic Studies and Leadership programme you completed?
A: I highly recommend it. Whether you’re interested in the BA in Islamic Studies, Classical Arabic, or the Contextual Islamic Studies and Leadership Islamic Leadership programme, there is tremendous benefit. I personally gained a great deal from it, and so have many others.