CAIRO - 23 April 2025: Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi attended the graduation ceremony of the second training course for imams of the Ministry of Awqaf from the Egyptian Military Academy on Tuesday at the Al-Manara International Conference Center.
The official spokesperson for the Presidency stated that the graduation and qualification of this new batch of imams, comprising 550 individuals who underwent a 24-week training period, comes within the framework of Presidential directives to the Ministry of Awqaf, in coordination with relevant state institutions, to develop a comprehensive training program.
This program aims to enhance the capabilities of imams at various levels, contributing to the advancement of religious discourse and the development of communication mechanisms, particularly in combating and refuting extremist ideology, as well as reinforcing awareness, knowledge, and understanding of various intellectual issues and current challenges.
Ambassador Mohamed El-Shenawy, the official spokesperson, added that the ceremony included a documentary film titled "Course Success Report," followed by a presentation of the imams' group research on the encyclopedic knowledge of a scholar and preacher and its impact on their duties (with Imam Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti as a model).
The graduation results were announced, and the graduates took the oath of allegiance, a newly established oath for imams and preachers, administered by Dr. Ahmed Nabawi, a member of the technical office of the Minister of Awqaf.
The event also featured a poetry recital by a graduate and a religious chant. Lieutenant General Ashraf Zaher, Director of the Egyptian Military Academy, and Dr. Osama al-Azhari, Minister of Awqaf, delivered speeches highlighting the importance of integration and cooperation among relevant state bodies to implement the political leadership's vision in preparing a new generation of imams who combine in-depth knowledge of religious sciences with mastery of modern communication tools, thereby enhancing their role in spreading moderate thought and consolidating national values.
During his speech, Sisi affirmed that “Egypt, with its ancient history, distinguished scholars, and established institutions, has been and will remain a beacon of enlightened moderate Islam, which values humanity, honors reason, respects diversity, and establishes the meanings of justice and mercy”>
After concluding his written speech, President El-Sisi directed several messages embodying the state's vision in preparing a balanced and responsible individual, capable of contributing positively to society. He pointed to the importance of emulating Imam al-Suyuti as a role model, who made an exceptional contribution by authoring 1164 books during his lifetime.
President Sisi affirmed that words alone are not enough to make an impact on society but must be translated into positive and effective actions. He cited the example of using mosques, in addition to being places of worship, to provide educational services to students.
The President concluded his speech by emphasizing the importance of preserving the Arabic language and the role of preachers in being guardians of freedom, reflecting a comprehensive vision of societal development.
Wed, Apr. 23, 2025
