31 pioneers complete UMSC Imams’ training course

The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) education department graduated 31 pioneer Imams and sheikhats (female Muslim preachers) after completing Islamic studies at Gadaffi National Mosque early this week.
Sheikh Juma Bakhit, UMSC Secretary for Education, explained that the program aims to equip Muslim preachers with essential skills.
“We established this program to enhance teaching skills, Quran recitation, and interpretation. Many Muslim preachers lack these skills, and our goal is to ensure their preaching meets standards. This will help combat fundamentalism in preaching,” Bakhit said.
Bakhit noted that while over 100 individuals enrolled, only 31 completed the course.
Presiding over the graduation ceremony, Muzamiru Aboni, UMSC national deputy chairman,
commended Bakhit for initiating the program.
“Many sheikhs are highly educated but lack preaching skills. This program addresses that gap,” Aboni said.

Aboni encouraged the Imams to pursue further education through mature entry programs.
“You’ve qualified in Arabic or Islamic studies, but consider enrolling in other disciplines. There’s no law stopping Imams from becoming engineers or doctors. Prophet Muhammad was a merchant; acquire new skills to compete in the job market,” Aboni advised.
Aboni also cautioned the Imams about social media’s potential risks.
Dr Idris Serwadda, Islamic Call University College Vice Chancellor, emphasized the importance of knowledge.

“The Quran says those who know are not equal to those who don’t. Knowledge exposes us to new ideas and develops our brains. We established the Islamic Call University Society to educate Muslims. We offer mature entry programs; pass the exam, and you can join the university,” Serwadda said.
Muhammad Kateregga Namuguzi, UMSC Education Committee Chairperson, thanked Bakhit for the program.
“This initiative decolonizes Uganda’s education system,” Namuguzi said.
Muhammad Ali Aluma, UMSC deputy secretary general in charge of Finance and Planning, emphasized the importance of lifelong learning.
“Seeking knowledge is from birth to death. UMSC offers various programs, including free computer studies and tailoring. Embrace these opportunities for development,” Aluma said.