The Al-Quds Education Endowment (Waqf) is an irrevocable Islamic charitable trust formed under the principles of Shari’ah and South African law, in collaboration with Islamic Relief South Africa, to generate sustainable financial support for Al-Quds University in Jerusalem.
About Al-Quds University
Al-Quds University is a leading Palestinian academic institution based in Jerusalem, with a mission of providing quality education, research, and community service. It is deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual heritage of Al-Quds and is committed to advancing intellectual freedom, academic excellence, and social justice.
Despite being under political and economic pressures, Al-Quds continues to be a beacon of knowledge and hope for Palestinians, educating future leaders in medicine, law, technology, and more. Al-Quds University stands as a symbol for academic excellence amidst occupation and hardship. Many students face financial obstacles, often making higher education inaccessible.
The Old City of Jerusalem faces increasing marginalisation and pressure, and its communities require structured, sustainable support.
About the Waqf
By reviving the Islamic tradition of Waqf, this initiative offers a self-sustaining solution, as opposed to temporary aid. It empowers the global Ummah to invest in long-term change, rather than reactive charity.
The Waqf works by collecting donations which are invested in Shari’ah-compliant ventures. The capital remains intact, and only the returns (profits) are used to support designated causes. This model ensures ongoing benefit (Sadaqah Jariyah) long after the donor has passed on.
The Waqf aims to:
- Provide tuition assistance to underprivileged students at Al-Quds University
- Fund the University’s academic and institutional development
- Support educational and social outreach initiatives for families, especially those in the Old City of Jerusalem
- Preserve the intellectual, cultural, and religious identity of Palestinian Muslims in Al-Quds (Jerusalem)
- Enable Muslims around the world to participate in reviving the institution of waqf, earning ongoing reward in the Hereafter.
Returns generated from Waqf capital will be allocated as follows:
Designated portion:
- Tuition support for disadvantaged students
- Academic programmes and faculty development
- Support for families and children in Jerusalem through outreach and educational programmes
Discretionary portion:
- Used at the discretion of the Council of Mutawallees for needs aligned with the Waqf’s objectives, including institutional sustainability or emergency needs.
- All funds are managed and disbursed through Shari’ah-compliant mechanisms, with oversight from Islamic Relief South Africa and an appointed Council of Mutawallees
Intended short-term impact:
- Immediate tuition relief for financially burdened students
- Strengthened educational programming and outreach in Jerusalem
- Increased global awareness and solidarity with Al-Quds
Intended long-term impact:
- A self-sustaining source of support for Al-Quds University
- Empowerment of future generations of Palestinian leaders and professionals
- Preservation of Islamic identity in Al-Quds through education
- Eternal reward (Sadaqah Jariyah) for donors, in accordance with the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (S):
When a person dies, his deeds come to an end except for three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for him.
How donors can contribute
There are several flexible options for contributing to the Al-Quds Education Endowment, including:
- A once-off lump sum
- Monthly or annual contributions
- Legacy giving (through bequests in your will)
- Zakah and Sadaqah contributions
- Investment property or assets (subject to Shari’ah compliance)