Al-Bassiriya Zawiya in Hosts an International Symposium on the Educational Role of Sufi Scholars

The Al-Bassiriya Zawiya in Beni Ayat, Azilal Province, will host an international scientific symposium on June 17–18, 2026, organized by the Mohammed Basir Foundation for Research, Studies and Media under the theme: “Sufi Scholars: From Scholarly Learning to Educational Conduct and Social Reform.” The event coincides with the commemoration of the 56th anniversary of the uprising led by the freedom fighter Sidi Mohammed Basir in the city of Laayoune.

This scientific initiative forms part of the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to promote Sunni Sufism and strengthen the dissemination of Islamic scholarship in Morocco. It seeks to highlight exemplary scholars who combined rigorous academic learning with spiritual education based on self-purification, while contributing to the consolidation of the values of moderation, balance, and social reform.

The symposium is being held within a distinctive national context that reflects the special attention accorded by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, Commander of the Faithful, to Sufism and Sufi zawiyas as essential pillars in preserving the Kingdom’s religious constants. It also aligns with the spirit of the Royal Message calling for the commemoration of fifteen centuries since the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), emphasizing the importance of renewing engagement with the Prophetic tradition and drawing inspiration from its values in the fields of education and reform.

Participants are expected to discuss a range of scholarly issues related to the relationship between Sufism and Islamic sciences, the role of spiritual purification in shaping scholarly personalities, and the contributions of prominent Sufi scholars in Morocco and across the Muslim world. The symposium will also examine their roles in religious and social reform.

The proceedings will further shed light on the contributions of Sufi zawiyas—particularly the Al-Bassiriya Zawiya—to national causes. Special attention will be given to the struggle and legacy of the freedom fighter Mohammed Basir, regarded as a symbol of sincere patriotism rooted in the Kingdom’s religious values, as well as to the influence of his Sufi affiliation in shaping his leadership character.

The symposium will also address contemporary challenges facing Sufism and explore ways of renewing its educational and reform-oriented functions, especially in light of rapid digital transformations. Discussions will include the prospects of employing artificial intelligence technologies in the service of Sufi and scholarly heritage.

In addition to the academic sessions, the event will feature a parallel program including an exhibition of the Foundation’s publications comprising 36 scholarly works, a display of historical documents related to the Al-Bassiriya Zawiya and Mohammed Basir, and the screening of a documentary film highlighting the Zawiya’s history and multifaceted contributions. The organizers also plan to publish the symposium’s proceedings in a peer-reviewed academic volume.

The symposium is expected to attract a distinguished group of scholars and researchers from Morocco and abroad, with the aim of deepening scholarly debate on the role of Sufism in education and reform, while reinforcing its presence as a key driver of spiritual and social balance.