CADAADO, Galmudug - Senior government officials and religious scholars gathered in Cadaado district on Saturday for the inauguration of the fourth annual Quran competition organized by the Al-Furqaan Association, with 150 students from across Galmudug State set to compete in various religious disciplines.
The opening ceremony was attended by Deputy Minister of Interior Cumar Maxamed Diriye, Minister of Livestock Cabdullaahi Cabdiraxmaan Tootoole, and Sheikh Maxamuud Cali Maxamuud representing the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs, alongside traditional leader Nabadoon Maxamuud Carab and parents of the competing students.
Macallin Khaliif, the manager of the competition, announced that this year's tournament has expanded to include new categories beyond traditional memorization. "This year we have increased the competition to include important new sections," he stated. Participants will compete across five different tracks: memorization of 30 Juz, 10 Juz, and 5 Juz sections, alongside newly introduced categories in Tafsir (Quranic interpretation) and the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Sheikh Maxamuud Cali Maxamuud praised the initiative, emphasizing its benefits for the community. "You have participated in goodness, and our ministers are leading the way in dedicating time to this noble cause," he said, referencing Quranic verses about the elevated status of those who memorize the holy book. He described the investment in such educational endeavors as money well spent, praying for blessings upon the organizers, their wealth, and knowledge.
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The officials highlighted the connection between religious education and regional stability. Deputy Minister Diriye and Minister Tootoole stressed that competitions like the Al-Furqaan tournament play a crucial role in promoting the Quran, the Sunnah, and Tafsir throughout Galmudug's districts. They argued that when people learn their religion and proper Islamic culture, they move away from ignorance and violence, fostering a society of peace and cooperation.
"Security is the foundation of Galmudug State," the officials noted, explaining that true security comes when citizens are educated in their faith. They emphasized that such gatherings create unity among people who support one another, leading to development and progress.
The ministers extended gratitude to the Al-Furqaan Association for their service to Somali society, noting that the competition addresses a significant need by providing educational opportunities for numerous students and scholars in the region.