Our Commitment to Your Privacy

At Seminary of Sacred Knowledge, we are committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information with care and in accordance with Islamic principles of trust (Amanah) and ethical conduct. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information.

1. Information We Collect

Personal Information

We may collect personal information that you voluntarily provide when you:

• Apply for admission to our programs
• Register for events or lectures
• Make a donation
• Subscribe to our newsletter
• Submit a contact form
• Create an account on eAlim platform

This information may include:

• Name and contact information (email, phone, address)
• Date of birth and educational background
• Payment and donation information
• Academic records and progress
• Emergency contact information

Automatically Collected Information

When you visit our website, we may automatically collect:

• IP address and browser information
• Device information
• Pages visited and time spent
• Referring website
• Cookies and similar technologies

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Process Applications: Review and process program applications and enrollments
• Provide Services: Deliver educational services, access to online platforms, and program materials
• Communication: Send important updates, newsletters, and information about our programs
• Process Donations: Handle charitable contributions and issue tax receipts
• Improve Services: Analyze website usage to enhance user experience
• Compliance: Meet legal and regulatory requirements
• Safety: Ensure the safety and security of our students and community

3. Information Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information. We may share your information only in these limited circumstances:

• Service Providers: Third-party vendors who assist in operations (payment processors, email services, web hosting)
• Legal Requirements: When required by law, court order, or legal process
• Emergency Situations: To protect health, safety, or rights of individuals
• With Your Consent: When you explicitly authorize disclosure

4. Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information, including:

• SSL encryption for data transmission
• Secure servers and databases
• Access controls and authentication
• Regular security assessments
• Staff training on data protection

However, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure. We cannot guarantee absolute security but strive to use commercially acceptable means to protect your data.

5. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use cookies and similar technologies to:

• Remember your preferences
• Understand website usage patterns
• Improve website functionality
• Analyze traffic and user behavior

You can control cookies through your browser settings. Disabling cookies may affect website functionality.

6. Your Rights

Under Canadian privacy law (PIPEDA), you have the right to:

• Access: Request access to your personal information
• Correction: Request correction of inaccurate information
• Withdrawal: Withdraw consent for certain uses
• Deletion: Request deletion of your information (subject to legal obligations)
• Portability: Receive your data in a structured format
• Object: Object to certain processing activities

To exercise these rights, contact us at: privacy@seminaryofsk.com

7. Data Retention

We retain personal information only as long as necessary for the purposes outlined in this policy or as required by law. Retention periods vary based on:

• Student records: 7 years after graduation or withdrawal
• Donation records: As required by tax law (typically 7 years)
• Marketing communications: Until you unsubscribe
• Website analytics: 26 months

8. Children’s Privacy

Our programs serve students of various ages, including minors. We collect information about minors only with parental/guardian consent for educational purposes. Parents/guardians have the right to:

• Review their child’s information
• Request correction or deletion
• Refuse further collection or use

9. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites (YouTube, social media, eAlim.org). We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these sites. Please review their privacy policies.

10. International Data Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries outside Canada, including the United States. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place for such transfers.

11. Email Communications

If you subscribe to our newsletter or updates, you may unsubscribe at any time by:

• Clicking the “unsubscribe” link in any email
• Emailing us at office@seminaryofsk.com
• Contacting us at (226) 899-7266

12. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated “Last Updated” date. Significant changes will be communicated via email or website notice. Continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

13. Islamic Principles

Our privacy practices are guided by Islamic principles including:

• Amanah (Trust): We are trustees of your information
• Hifz al-‘Aurat (Protecting Privacy): Respecting confidentiality
• Sidq (Truthfulness): Transparent communication about our practices
• ‘Adl (Justice): Fair and ethical handling of data

14. Contact Information

15. Complaints

If you believe we have not complied with this Privacy Policy or applicable privacy laws, you may:

1. Contact our Privacy Officer (details above)
2. File a complaint with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada:
   Website: www.priv.gc.ca
   Phone: 1-800-282-1376