Markazul Ma’arif, Mumbai Bridges a Major Educational Gap:
Keynote Address by Hafiz Nadeem Siddiqui, President of Jamiat Ulama-e-Maharashtra
EC News Desk
Mumbai, February 21, 2025: The annual function of Markazul Ma’arif Education and Research Centre (MMERC), Mumbai, was held on 20 February with great zeal and fervor. This academic and skill-training center is dedicated to equipping Islamic scholars with English language proficiency to make them more effective and beneficial for the community and the nation. In addition to that, it provides a structured system for children’s religious education and skill-training, ensuring that young minds receive both spiritual and intellectual nourishment.
A Maktab (elementary Islamic school) is an integral part of this institution, where local children receive foundational religious education. The curriculum spans six years, covering everything from the alphabet to the recitation of the Glorious Qur’an, the Seerah of the Prophet ﷺ, and fundamental Islamic rulings. This initiative ensures that even school-going children develop a firm understanding of religious obligations and integrate them into their daily lives.
During the event, Maktab students delivered passionate speeches on various topics, performed dialogues, and presented practical demonstrations reflecting the Sunnah and exemplary life of the Prophet ﷺ. Their performances were highly appreciated by the audience.
The students enrolled in the English language program at MMERC also showcased their talents. Muaz Qasmi delivered a comprehensive presentation on Daily Routine, while class monitor Shahzad Nadwi shared his learning experiences, overall feedback and expressed heartfelt gratitude to his peers and teachers. The coveted Best Speaker of the Year award was secured by Qamrul Husain Qasmi, whose eloquence and rhetorical prowess left the audience spellbound.
In terms of academic excellence, Muhammad Arshad Ansari secured the first position for the year, followed by Tausiqur Rahman Lashkar in second place, and Muhammad in third. Students who demonstrated consistency and commitment to their studies were also acknowledged, with Muhammad Asad and Muhammad Nadeem receiving special recognition of Punctual Students of MMERC for their full attendance and regular participation in classes.
Beyond academics, MMERC places significant emphasis on extra-curricular activities. The tradition of awarding students at the year’s end serves to inspire them toward greater dedication, enthusiasm, and perseverance in their educational journey. Prizes and trophies were distributed by esteemed guests to outstanding students from both the Maktab and the senior English-learning program, recognizing their academic achievements and exemplary conduct.
Reflecting on the event, the speakers remarked, “This function, with all its academic and skill-training dimensions, testifies that MMERC is not only fostering linguistic and literary excellence but is also a milestone in personality development and intellectual advancement.” Various scholars and social figures shared their thoughts, commending the efforts of MMERC, particularly the selfless services of its founder, Maulana Badruddin Ajmal Al-Qasmi, and his family.
Hafiz Nadeem Siddiqui, President of Jamiat Ulama Maharashtra, delivered the keynote address, shedding light on the foundation, necessity, and contributions of MMERC. He drew a historical parallel, recalling the Nizam system in the Hyderabad State during the past, where Darul Uloom Deoband graduates were provided teaching opportunities in schools and colleges based on their competencies. Unfortunately, that system gradually faded away over time. However, MMERC has now played a crucial role in filling this educational void and equipping madrasa graduates with the necessary modern skills to meet contemporary challenges. He expressed profound gratitude to Maulana Badruddin Ajmal for this invaluable initiative.
The Guest of Honor, Mr. Haroon Rashid, MLA from Versova Constituency, praised the outstanding performance of the students and urged them to embody the teachings of the Prophet ﷺ in their practical lives. He emphasized that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ was a source of mercy for all of humanity, and his teachings serve as a guiding light for people of all backgrounds, regardless of faith or ethnicity.
The Honored Guest, Maulana Muhibul Mursaleen (Nazim-e-Ta’leemat, Madrasa Islamia Gulshan Nagar, Mumbai), highlighted the significance of Maktab education. He stressed that a child’s initial religious training begins at the Maktab, and parents must recognize its value. He urged them to enroll their children in these institutions wherever available. He further elaborated that Maktabs not only serve as centers for religious instruction but also play a vital role in children’s mental and moral development. Moreover, children who receive Maktab education become ambassadors of harmony, brotherhood, and goodwill in their communities and society.
The event witnessed a large gathering of men, women, and dignitaries from the region. The concluding session was eloquently moderated by Maulana Shahid Khan Qasmi and Mufti Jaseemuddin Qasmi, while the institution’s director, Maulana Burhanuddin Qasmi, delivered the welcome address. The session concluded with words of gratitude by Maulana Atiqur Rahman Qasmi, followed by heartfelt supplications led by Mufti Muhammad Aslam (Sheikhul Hadith, Jamiul Uloom, Balapur, Akola). In his prayers, he invoked blessings for the progress of the Ummah, the spread of knowledge, and overall peace and well-being.
