Showcasing research at the 10th ASPS convention in Tashkent

IIS scholars contributed in multiple capacities, presenting research papers, organising and chairing panels, and delivering book talks. Their wide-ranging participation reflected the diversity and depth of the Institute’s scholarship.

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Group photo of scholars at the ASPS Biennial Convention in Tashkent, August 2025

Voices of IIS – Episode 5 with Joy Johnson

Joy Johnson celebrates 35 years at The Institute of Ismaili Studies. Join host Selina Ramji as they discuss Joy’s passion for people, travel, and storytelling.

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a glass ceiling with a colorful wall and a wall with a tree in the background

Inauguration of Muslim Expressions from South Asia exhibition at the Aga Khan Centre

Explore rare manuscripts, audio recordings, and artefacts that celebrate South Asia’s Muslim heritage and the spirit of voluntary service.

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A gallery exhibit showing a framed piece of calligraphy on a green wall and a red garment with gold embroidery. Display cases and framed images are visible in the background.

IIS Showcases Knowledge, Heritage and Engagement at the Global Encounters Festival 2025

IIS participated in the Global Encounters Festival, joining several other institutions of the Ismaili Imamat in the AKDN Pavilion at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

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IIS Alumni and Partners Gathering at the Global Encounters Festival

Alumni and supporters of IIS came together for a special event hosted at the Global Encounters Festival in Dubai

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About us

The Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS), established in 1977, is a higher education, research and teaching institution dedicated to high-quality scholarship and education on Islam and Muslim societies, with a particular focus on Ismaili and broader Shiʿi studies, encompassing their historical and geographical contexts.

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Study with us

Graduate studies

IIS currently offers two graduate programmes which attract students from Ismaili communities world-wide.

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Short Courses

Our Short Courses are designed to introduce participants to a social, cultural, and civilisational approach to the study of Islam and Muslim societies, with a particular focus on Ismaili contexts.

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Fellowships and Scholarships

The Institute offers various scholarship and fellowship programmes to suitable candidates with a focus on Islamic studies or other areas of interest to IIS.

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Discover our research

Research at IIS seeks to contribute to the field of Islamic studies in general, with a particular focus on Shiʿi and Ismaili studies.

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Explore our publications

The Institute of Ismaili Studies publishes works by its own scholars as well as from the academic community outside the Institute.

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Podcast

Voices of IIS – Episode 4 with Alnoor Nathani

Alnoor Nathani is celebrating 30 years at The Institute of Ismaili Studies. Join host Selina Kassam Ramji as they discuss Alnoor’s passion for art and design and how he brings that to the IIS’ ta’lim (curriculum).

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Podcast

Voices of IIS - Episode 3 with Dr Shainool Jiwa

Dr Shainool Jiwa is celebrating 25 years at The Institute of Ismaili Studies. Join host Selina Kassam Ramji as they remember how Dr Jiwa got started in the Institute, what inspired her to study the Fatimid Empire (909-1171 CE) and how she brings Islamic studies to a wider audience today.

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Podcast

Voices of IIS - Episode 2 with Shah Hussain

Listen to the second episode of Voices of IIS, featuring Shah Hussain, librarian at the Aga Khan Library. He reflects on his journey from Chitral to IIS, and the enduring role of libraries in out society.

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Man in checked shirt, front of colourful background.

Podcast

Voices of IIS - Episode 1 with Shiraz Kabani

Dr Shiraz Kabani is celebrating 25 years at The Institute of Ismaili Studies. Join host Selina Kassam Ramji as they share how Dr Kabani got started with institutional work and what inspires him to continue reaching the Ismaili community.

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