Darul Musanneffin Shibli Academy at Azamgarh in India is one of the premiere Islamic research institute. In its more than 100 year of existence it has produced invaluable literature in the area of Islamic history, Islamic history in India, Life of the Prophet and the life of the Companions of the Prophet. Professor Ishtiyaq Ahmad Zilli joined Darul Musanneffin in March 2008 as Director/Secretary. After serving the academy for almost 13 years he has in resigned from the academy in November 2021. The new chairman selected by the committee is Dr. Zafrul Islam Khan.

He is son of well known scholar, Late Maulana Wahiduddin Khan. His younger brother, Saniyasnain Khan is also a writer and publisher and runs Goodword Books. Zafrul Islam Khan got his primary education from Madrasatul Islah, Azamgarh. Later he went to Nadwatul Ulama, Lucknow. Later he went for higher studies to Jamia Al Azhar, Cairo and completed his Ph.D. from University of Manchester, UK.

Zafrul Islam Khan is a well known public figure who has a record of public service in various capacities. At present he is editor and publisher of English fortnightly The Milli Gazette. He is also the founder and chairman of Charity Alliance. Charity Alliance is an NGO involved in relief work in India and also runs school for poor in West Bengal. He is former president of All India Majlis e Mushawarat for multiple terms. He is ex chairman of Delhi Minorities Commission.

Zafrul Islam Khan is also a prolific writer and has written several books and numerous articles. Before being elected as Director/Secretary of Darul Musanneffin, he was associated with the academy for several years. He brings vast and diverse experience with him to the academy. Of late, The academy is going through a very tough situation financially. I hope that he will strengthen the academy with his leadership and the academy will thrive and continue its illustrious journey under his leadership, Ameen.