MMERC Conducts 1st English Elocution Competition of the Academic Year 2025–26
“It is extremely important to choose topics in accordance with current circumstances so that the world may be made aware of the truth.” — Corporator Mohsin Haider
“In an effective speech, the style of delivery matters more than the content.” — Professor Arif Ansari
EC News Desk
29/06/2025
Markazul Ma’arif Education and Research Centre (MMERC), Mumbai, conducted its First Elocution Competition for the academic year 2025–26 on Sunday, 29th June 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 anchored by Maulana Salman Alam Qasmi, lecturer at MMERC, who delivered an introductory address to welcome the distinguished guests and set the tone for this 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, Dr. Isa Nadvi, a former Prof. and vice principal, Versova Tibbiya College; and the third judge, Prof. Arif Ansari Sb, former Prof at Sabu Siddiqui Engineering College and very senior lecturer at MMERC. The program was presided over by Hafiz Iqbal Chunawala, Member of Shura, Darul Ulum Waqf Deoband, while Mr. Haji Mohsin Haider sb, Corporator: MCGM, K West Ward Andheri, 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 a milestone in MMERC’s journey of academic and spiritual excellence.
At the end of the speeches, Professor Isa Nadvi reflected on the commendable performance of the institution and the importance of language, drawing from historical references. He remarked, “In the past, Muslims were never deprived of the resources demanded by the times, nor did they rely on others for their development. Such was the grandeur that the Caliph of Muslims would address the clouds, saying, ‘Rain wherever you wish—your tax will eventually reach us.’ But with the passage of time, the situation altered drastically, to the extent that it began to be said: ‘The sun never sets on the British Empire.’”
Professor Muhammad Arif Ansari emphasized the importance of keeping key points in mind to make a speech well-structured and impactful. He said, “A speech should be like a pencil—always containing a few sharp points.” He further added that in an effective speech, “the style of delivery often matters more than the content itself.”
The results of the competition were announced by Maulana Burhanuddin Qasmi. He declared Tausiqur Rahman Lashkar as the first-place winner, followed by Muhammad Asa’d Qasmi in second place and Muaz 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 chief guest of the program, Mr. Mohsin Haider, remarked that the success of any event is not measured by numbers but by the quality of performance. In his address, he congratulated the participants and shared an experience from his visit to Iran. He pointed out that the Western media has consistently portrayed Muslims in a negative light. During his trip, a reporter from The Times of India accompanied the delegation, whose sole objective was to find and report faults in Iran rather than highlight its virtues. However, he failed to do so, as reality contradicted his expectations. Mr. Haider stressed the importance of choosing relevant and timely topics so that the world can be made aware of the truth.
The president of the event, Mr. Iqbal Chunawala, highly appreciated the students’ performance. He remarked, “Such excellent presentations are rarely seen even among school and college students in such a short period—especially considering that they often rely on tuition, whereas here, no such tuition system exists.” He also expressed his delight at the thoughtful selection of topics by the participants and shared brief but meaningful reflections on each one.
Mufti Abdul Hamid Qasmi, Muhaddith at Darul Uloom Banskandi, Assam, stated in his special addres that hard work and a strong connection with Allah hold a central place in a person’s success. Therefore, students must adopt both of these qualities as essential parts of their lives.
Finally, the event ended with a heartfelt dua led by Maulana Shaid Qasmi, leaving the audience inspired and spiritually enriched.
