Voices That Move: MMERC’s Elocution Competition Inspires All
EC News Desk
30/ 09/ 2024
On the 29th of September 2024, Markazul Ma’arif Education and Research Centre, Mumbai, held its 2nd Elocution Competition. The event was divided into two stages: the elimination round took place on Saturday, 28th September, and the final round was conducted yesterday. Out of 30 participants, 10 students were selected for the final round, showcasing a highly competitive atmosphere where every contestant excelled.
The program commenced with a soulful recitation of the Glorious Qur’an by Amir Zaman Qasmi, followed by a Na’at in praise of the Prophet Muhammad (SAWS) by Omar Faruq Mandal. Mohammad Taukir Rahmani adeptly anchored the event, ensuring smooth transitions.
Mufti Jaseemuddin Qasmi warmly welcomed all guests, marking the start of the speeches. The esteemed judging panel included Professor Isa Nadwi, Professor Arif Ansari, and Maulana Burhanuddin Qasmi, all of whom provided their expert evaluations. They were thoroughly impressed by the eloquence and fluency of the students, particularly by the impressive English speeches delivered by the Ulama.
During his remarks, Professor Arif Ansari emphasized key elements of effective public speaking. He noted that “voice modulation is the soul of effectiveness in public speaking” and highlighted the responsibility of a speaker to captivate and engage the audience, stating that “reading is a public duty.” Drawing from Winston Churchill, he advised that “a speech should be like a woman’s skirt: long enough to cover the subject and short enough to create interest.”
Following these insightful tips, Professor Arif Ansari provided additional suggestions on refining the art of oratory and announced the competition results. Maaz Qasmi achieved first place, Qamrul Hussain secured second, and Mohammad took the third position.
The event was presided over by Hafiz Iqbal Chunawala a distinguished social worker from the city, who is also a member of the advisory committee of Darul Uloom Waqf Deoband. Dr. Rashid Anwar Kazi, a gold medalist and the principal of Anjuman Islam Tibbiya College in Mumbai, graced the event as the chief guest. He was deeply impressed by the students’ speeches. In his remarks, Dr. Kazi advised the participants to first identify their target audience and tailor their speech preparation accordingly, as this would help in effectively engaging and conveying their message. He further expressed his support for MMERC’s mission and assured his readiness to assist the institution in any way possible.
The program concluded with a heartfelt supplication by Maulana Shahid Khan Qasmi, Imam of the Markazul Ma’arif Masjid. Among those present were Maulana Atiqur Rahman Qasmi, Jafar Bhai, Mufti Ahmed Qasmi, and the entire MMERC faculty.
The competition was a resounding success, highlighting the remarkable talent and hard work of the students.
Such beautiful programs are too much beneficial and should be organized very frequently to update the oratory skills of the students learning English language.