Grand Finale of MMERC Elocution Competition 2024–25: A Celebration of Knowledge and Excellence
EC News Desk
20/01/2025
Markazul Ma’arif Education and Research Centre (MMERC), Mumbai, conducted its grand finale of the Elocution Competition for the academic year 2024–25 on Sunday, 19th January 2025. Renowned as the pioneering institute of its kind, MMERC is dedicated to equipping ulama with proficiency in English Language and Literature, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the Ummah both within the country and abroad.
The program commenced with the recitation of the Glorious Qur’an, followed by a heartfelt na‘t in praise of the beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAWS). The event was graciously anchored by Mufti Jaseemuddin Qasmi, a senior lecturer at MMERC, who delivered an eloquent introductory address to welcome the distinguished guests and set the tone for this esteemed gathering.
Three prestigious personalities graced the event as judges: the first judge, Maulana Burhanuddin Qasmi, Editor of Eastern Crescent and Director of MMERC; the second judge, Mr. Sayyed Shafi Wassan, a senior researcher; and the third judge, Dr. Yahya Khan, Medical Consultant at Tata Consultancy Ltd. The program was presided over by Qari Rafiq, Imam & Khatib at Jama Masjid, West Indies, while Mr. Rizwan, GST Superintendent, Mumbai, honored the event as the chief guest.
Subsequently, the series of speeches began, with participants delivering insightful talks on various topics of contemporary relevance, showcasing their talent, dedication, and deep understanding. This event marked yet another milestone in MMERC’s journey of academic and spiritual excellence.
At the end of the speeches, Dr. Yahya Khan shared his thoughts, emphasizing that the pursuit of knowledge never stops; it continues until the grave. Mr. Sayyed Shafi Wassan addressed the students, reminding them that those who serve society and humanity are, in essence, servants of Allah. He elaborated that Allah is the Creator of everything, and the purpose of creating human beings is to spread knowledge and benefit all creations. Mr. Rizwan, GST Superintendent, Mumbai, highlighted the importance of ulama in addressing the needs of various fields, stressing that society looks to them for correct and authentic guidance rooted in shariah. A special guest, Mr. Ahtesham Aibani, Senior Consultant at Tata Consultancy Ltd., addressed the students, emphasizing their role as ulama. He advised them to acquire sufficient knowledge to respond to the queries of common people with satisfactory and well-informed answers. He stressed the importance of becoming experts in their respective fields to fulfill this critical responsibility effectively.
The results of the competition were announced by Maulana Burhanuddin Qasmi. He declared Maulana Shahzad Nadwi as the first-place winner, followed by Maulana Muaz Qasmi in second place and Qamrul Hussain Qasmi in third. All winners were honored with prizes. In his concluding remarks, Maulana Qasmi extended heartfelt gratitude to the guests and participants, appreciating their contributions to the event’s success.
The program concluded with a presidential speech by Qari Rafiq, who emphasized the significance of ethics and knowledge in life. He reminded everyone of the five qualities mentioned by Prophet Muhammad (SAWS) that every Muslim should adopt: (1.) Iman (faith) (2.) Sweetness in worship (3.) Salah (prayer (4.) Purity in dealings (5.) Excellence in moral conduct and social interactions.
Finally, the event ended with a heartfelt dua led by Qari Rafiq, leaving the audience inspired and spiritually enriched.
