9th Annual Australian Islamic Schooling Conference

The Centre for Islamic Thought and Education (CITE) has announced the 9th Annual Australian Islamic Schooling Conference (AAISC9), scheduled to take place on August 15–16, 2026, at the University of Adelaide, Australia. This year’s theme, "Islamic School Renewal: Tarbiyah of the Educator and the Inward Turn Toward Outward Impact," shifts the focus of institutional improvement from policy and structure to the spiritual and professional formation of the educator.

At the heart of the conference is the concept of tarbiyah—a holistic process of human formation that integrates the physical, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions. The 2026 program asserts that meaningful change within Islamic schools must begin with the "inward turn" of teachers and leaders, recognizing that their personal character (ta’dib) and inner refinement (tazkiyah) are the primary catalysts for outward educational impact.

The conference will serve as a collaborative space for scholars, educators, and policymakers to re-anchor teaching practices in Islamic epistemology. Key sub-themes include:

• The Murabbī: Exploring the educator’s spiritual and moral formation as a prerequisite for teaching.
• Curriculum as Tarbiyah: Moving toward coherent, purpose-led designs that nurture the whole student.
• Leadership as Amanah: Redefining school governance through the lens of ethical clarity and sincerity.
• Future Innovations: Navigating digital life and Artificial Intelligence through a foundation of tarbiyah-grounded ethics.

Key Information and Deadlines The conference invites researchers and practitioners to contribute to these vital discussions. Those interested in presenting are encouraged to take note of the upcoming submission window.

• Conference Dates: August 15 – 16, 2026
• Location: Bonython Hall, The University of Adelaide, South Australia
• Abstract Submission Deadline: May 15, 2026
• Notification of Acceptance: May 29, 2026
• Full Program Release: July 15, 2026

Registration and Contact Registration is now open for educators, community partners, and researchers. For those traveling to Adelaide, preferential accommodation rates are available at select local hotels.

• Official Registration Link: 9th Annual Australian Islamic Schooling Conference