Sadiki College
In 1896 Bashir Sfar and other advocates of renewal from "al-Hādira" founded "al-Jam'iyah Khalduniya" [the Khaldun Society]; its charter was approved by a French decree. The society provided a forum for sophisticated discussions; it was named after the famous medieval historian of Tunis Ibn Khaldun. According to professor Laroui, it "emphasized the need for gradual reform" of education and the family. "Khalduniya" also facilitated the role played by "ulama" progressives at Zitouna Mosque. "Khalduniya", wrote Laroui "became increasingly French both in mentality and in language." The "Khalduniya" society "opened a window on the West for Arabic-speaking Tunisians," comments professor Perkins. It offered to the public free classes in European sciences. Many decades later, regarding the new political party Neo-Destour, "Khalduniya" (and Sadiki College) "channeled many young men, and a few women, into the party." "Khalduniya" also helped create the demand in Tunisia for foreign Arabic newspapers and magazines.