National Symposium for Young Khatibs kicks off with over 300 participants

The ‘Natonal Symposium for Young Khatibs’ has commenced on Sunday with over 300 participants, held coinciding with the 900th anniversary of the Maldives embracing Islam.

This one-day conference, organized by the Islamic Minister, aims to encourage and empower the younger generation of Khatibs. According to the Ministry, participation was extended to those who have completed the Young Khatib training program and received certification, as well as individuals under the age of 30 who are currently serving as Imams or led the Tarawih prayers from memory during Ramadan.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, emphasized that the students who have attained their Khatib certification have chosen a noble and sublime path. He noted that this responsibility is an inheritance from the duties of the Prophets, stating that delivering the Friday sermon (Khutbah) is one of the most significant positions for commanding good and forbidding evil.

The Minister advised the young Khatibs that anyone standing in the position of delivering the Friday sermon must embody an exemplary character.

"The role [role of a Khatib] is a model position. Every Khatib standing on that pulpit must be a personality capable of setting an example. I believe that all of you are highly capable young individuals in this regard," the Minister remarked.

It is noteworthy that as part of the government's efforts to build a new generation of Khatibs, over 700 young individuals have been trained thus far.

Minister Shaheem also highlighted last night that the Maldives is currently producing the highest number of Hafiz in its history, with 322 registered Hafiz nationwide. He reiterated that a key objective of the government is to increase this number to 500 during the current term.