The title of the oldest university in the world is a subject of considerable debate, primarily between the University of Al Quaraouiyine in Morocco and the University of Bologna in Italy. Both institutions have rich histories and have made significant contributions to education, but they represent different traditions and timelines in the evolution of higher learning.
University of Al Quaraouiyine
University of Al Quaraouiyine Founded in 859 AD, it is located in Fez, Morocco. It began as a mosque but evolved within years as one of the most renowned religious and learning centers during the Golden Age of Islam. Its excellence in theology, mathematics, astronomy, and languages has been well-coveted for centuries. It is recognized by UNESCO and Guinness World Records as the oldest surviving degree-granting university in continuous operation. In 1963, it was incorporated into Morocco's modern state university system, further establishing it as an institution of critical importance to global education.
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The importance of Al Quaraouiyine is not just its age but also in that it has played an important role in the preservation and dissemination of knowledge over time. Scholars from different parts of the world flocked to study there, hence the diversity of its academic environment. Among the famous alumni are Ibn Khaldun, a great historian and philosopher who has significantly influenced social sciences.
University of Bologna
On the contrary, the oldest university in continuous running within Europe was the University of Bologna, founded in 1088 AD. This school is described as the "Nourishing Mother of Studies" and was one of the first to call itself the "Universitas" about an organized community of students and scholars. It mainly started out as a hub for the study of the law but expanded into more disciplines at various levels over time.
Bologna's importance in history goes beyond its age but also contributes to the shaping of academic freedom and governance in the institution. The university's structure provided for students to form guilds which could collectively bargain with the professors over tuition fees and course offerings; this foundational model has been the basis for modern universities the world over.
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Today, the University of Bologna boasts an enrollment of around 87,760 students, including many international students. Its alumni include three popes and numerous influential figures in politics and business.
Comparison
| University | Year Founded | Location | Notable Aspects |
| University of Al Quaraouiyine | 859 AD | Fez, Morocco | Oldest continuously operating university globally; pivotal in Islamic scholarship. |
| University of Bologna | 1088 AD | Bologna, Italy | The first university to use "universitas"; oldest continuously operating university in the West. |
While both universities claim to be the oldest, they embody different aspects of the development of higher education. The University of Al Quaraouiyine is known for its historical importance in Islamic culture and education, while the University of Bologna is revered for its foundational role in shaping Western academic traditions. Each institution reflects a unique legacy that continues to influence modern education systems around the globe.
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