A graduation ceremony at Harvard University recently drew widespread attention after a student, Suheila Mukhtar, recited verses from the Qur’an during the university’s commencement celebrations.
A video of the moment quickly spread across social media platforms, attracting millions of views and sparking discussion among viewers worldwide. In the widely shared clip, Mukhtar can be heard reciting verses from Surah Al-Alaq, the earliest chapter revealed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
The recitation took place as part of the graduation proceedings and was met with applause from attendees. Many social media users praised the moment as a reflection of religious diversity and inclusion at one of the world’s most prestigious academic institutions. Others highlighted the significance of hearing Qur’anic verses recited at a major university event attended by graduates, faculty members, families, and guests from various cultural and religious backgrounds.
Surah Al-Alaq begins with the command “Read” and emphasises the importance of knowledge, learning, and education – values that many commentators noted were particularly fitting for a graduation ceremony celebrating academic achievement.
The viral video prompted reactions from Muslim communities who described the recitation as a powerful symbol of the growing visibility of Muslim students in higher education and public life.
Harvard’s annual commencement ceremonies bring together thousands of graduates from across the globe and often feature student speeches, cultural presentations, and reflections on the graduating class’s experiences. The inclusion of Qur’anic recitation by Mukhtar added a distinctive and memorable moment to this year’s celebrations.
As the video continued to circulate online, it generated conversations about faith, identity, and multicultural representation on university campuses, with many observers viewing the recitation as an example of the diverse voices that make up contemporary academic communities.
