BUK don, Prof Hassana, presents Hausa translation of The Ideal Muslimah
By Uzair Adam
A professor of Special Education at Bayero University, Kano (BUK), Hassana Darma, has unveiled her Hausa translation of the globally acclaimed Islamic book The Ideal Muslimah, originally written in Arabic by Dr. Muhammad Ali Al-Hashimi and later translated into English by Nasiruddin Al-Khattab.
The book, now titled Musulma Ta Gari in Hausa, was presented during the monthly seminar organised by the International Institute of Islamic Thought (IIIT) at Bayero University, Kano, on Sunday.
Speaking at the event, Professor Darma narrated how the translation journey began with a single chapter she found in a folder of Islamic texts shared by a friend.
“I came across a chapter titled “The Muslim Woman and Her Husband”. I felt it was something that could benefit married women if translated into Hausa,” she said.
She later discovered that the chapter was part of a larger book while visiting a relative. “That’s when it dawned on me that I could translate the entire book, even if it would take years,” she added.
The project, which spanned nearly 15 years, was completed with guidance and review from Professor Ahmed Murtala of the Department of Islamic Studies and Sharia.
“It wasn’t an academic assignment; I did it during holidays, strikes, and personal time,” Darma explained.
Highlighting the book’s relevance, she noted that the content guides Muslim women through various aspects of life, ranging from their relationship with Allah to their interactions with parents, spouses, children, and the broader society.
“It’s a recipe for life. If you follow the content like you follow a cooking recipe, it can cleanse and guide your soul,” she noted.
Professor Darma also encouraged other women to take up translation projects, especially in areas that can benefit society.
“Many people don’t have access to knowledge because of language barriers. If we who understand more than one language translate, we will bridge that gap,” she said.
She further called on media houses to consider disseminating such works through radio, citing that “our people are better listeners than readers.”
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Furuk Umar Usman, husband to Professor Hassana Darma, commended her dedication to the translation project, stating that she was often seen working tirelessly at her computer.
He expressed gratitude to all those who supported the successful completion of the book, including their children, her sisters, and other family members.
Dr. Furuk acknowledged that the task was rigorous and time-consuming, but noted that the work received commendations from several respected individuals.
He narrated how Professor Ahmad Murtala provided support during the translation process and how the book was well received by the Vice Chancellor of Bayero University, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas.
He added that the book was also presented to Professor Sani Umar Rijiyar Lemo, who equally praised the quality of the translation.
Also speaking, Professor Aishatu Abdu Isma’il of the Department of Political Science, BUK, and a director at IIIT, described the book as “a powerful guide” that helps Muslim women understand their purpose in life and their roles in building moral societies.
“She has not missed the message of the original Arabic or English versions. The book reminds women of who they are, who they worship, and how they relate with others,” she said.
She added that the values in the book address pressing societal issues such as gender-based violence, poor parenting, and moral decay.
“Chapter 10 alone talks about a woman’s relationship with her community — which is critical today,” she stressed.
Also commenting, Dr. Saida Ahmad Dukawa, the National Coordinator of the International Institute of Islamic Thought (IIIT), noted that the event was organised as part of the institute’s monthly intellectual engagement series.
He explained that the gathering was aimed at reviewing the Hausa translation of The Ideal Muslimah, titled Musulma Ta Gari, rendered by Professor Hassana Darma.
According to him, IIIT regularly hosts scholarly presentations to foster intellectual discourse and knowledge sharing.
Dr. Dukawa emphasised the significant but often undervalued contributions of women to societal development, stating that the influence of women—especially mothers—plays a foundational role in shaping individuals long before formal education begins.
“Almost every renowned individual begins life with the tarbiyya, or moral training, provided by their mother.
“Women are the first educators, shaping the values and manners of future generations,” he said, stressing that behind every successful man, there is often a strong and nurturing woman.
The official launch of Musulma Ta Gari is scheduled for July 26 at the Convocation Arena of Bayero University, Kano.
