National Leadership Workshop Strengthens Islamic Education in Japan

# Leading with Shura: Islamic Foundations for Effective Team Dynamics at IISO

Hosted by IISO | Organized by the Union of Islamic Schools in Japan

Group Photo for all Participants

On Saturday, October 4, 2025, the International Islamia School Otsuka (IISO)—a pioneering Islamic school in Tokyo—had the honour of hosting a national leadership workshop titled “Leading with Shura: Islamic Foundations for Effective Team Dynamics.”

This impactful event was organized by the Union of Islamic Schools in Japan. It brought together educators and administrators from six key institutions: IISO, SIS, FIS, YUAI, BIS, and Al Sanad.

The workshop was facilitated by Mr. William White, President of the Council of Islamic Schools in North America (CISNA). It focused on strengthening school leadership through the Islamic principle of Shura (consultation). Participants explored how trust, respectful conflict, commitment, accountability, and results-driven collaboration can transform school culture and team performance.

Workshop Highlights

Held in IISO’s seminar space in Minami-Otsuka, the session featured:

• Interactive exercises, including the Personal Histories Activity

• Conflict style reflections to improve communication

• Team-building strategies rooted in Islamic values

• Practical tools for enhancing school-wide collaboration

  
  

Educators shared challenges and best practices. This reinforced the importance of unity and a shared vision in advancing Islamic education in Japan.

A Unified Effort Across Schools

This workshop marked a milestone in inter-school collaboration. Leaders from across Japan came together to:

• Strengthen professional networks

• Align leadership strategies with Islamic identity

• Commit to continuous improvement and shared growth

  
  

IISO’s team of 11 participants—including school leadership, coordinators, teachers, and board members—actively contributed. They pledged to apply the five principles in their daily work.

Moving Forward

As a leading Islamic school in Tokyo, IISO remains committed to providing value-based education. This nurtures both academic excellence and spiritual integrity for Muslim students in Japan. Hosting this national workshop reflects our dedication to professional development, community partnership, and educational leadership.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Mr. William White and all participating schools for their contributions to this meaningful event.

The Importance of Shura in Education

The principle of Shura is vital in educational settings. It encourages open dialogue and collaboration. When educators engage in Shura, they create a culture of trust. This culture fosters innovation and growth.

By embracing Shura, schools can enhance their decision-making processes. This leads to better outcomes for students and the community.

May Allah guide our educators, strengthen our institutions, and bless our efforts toward excellence in both this world and the next. Ameen.

By Dr. Nusaiba Hameed