The Oxford Center for Islamic Studies (OCIS) has been granted the Royal Charter and this will be celebrated at an event hosted by the center's patron, the Prince of Wales, Tuesday. Royal Charters, granted by the sovereign on the advice of the Privy Council, have a history dating back to the 13th century. They are now normally granted only to institutions that work in the public interest and which can demonstrate pre-eminence, stability and permanence in their particular field. The University of Oxford, and many of the Oxford Colleges, as well as a number of other leading British academic institutions, are similarly incorporated by Royal Charter. “This is a most important and welcome moment and I thank warmly all those who have encouraged and assisted the center's development over more than 25 years. As well as contributing strongly to the intellectual and academic life of Oxford, by focusing on the study of Muslim culture and civilization, the center has developed active global links with leading academic institutions internationally, Dr. Farhan Nizami, OCIS Director, said in a statement. Dr. Nizami expressed confidence that the contribution and importance of the center would grow in the years ahead and that it has the opportunity to make a unique contribution to greater understanding of the Muslim World, and more positive international dialogue, based on strong academic foundations. The OCIS, founded in 1985, is a recognized independent center at the University of Oxford. The center promotes multi-disciplinary teaching, research and publication at Oxford related to Muslim culture and civilization. Its fellows teach in a range of faculties across the University of Oxford. Through its international outreach, and links with academic institutions worldwide, the center provides a meeting place for scholars studying all aspects of contemporary Muslim societies. __
