Imagining the pride of hearing one's son lead the prayer at the local mosque is a sentiment that resonates deeply with many parents.
Empowering Youth Leadership Through the Imam Al Farij Initiative
The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) in Dubai pioneered the innovative initiative Imam Al Farij, bringing this dream within reach for families across the city.
Every parent envisions the moment when their son leads the prayer in their local mosque—a milestone that symbolizes spiritual growth and community contribution. The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) in Dubai has spearheaded the groundbreaking Imam Al Farij initiative, making this aspiration a reality for families across the city.
Visionary leadership inspires action.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of IACAD, conceived the Imam Al Farij initiative under his visionary leadership, building upon the success of the Muezzin Al Farij campaign. This campaign identified and nurtured talented muezzins from among Dubai's youth, laying the foundation for the larger goal of cultivating youth leadership within the religious sphere.
Education and community involvement
Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, the director general of IACAD, emphasizes the dual purpose of the initiative: to prepare young individuals for leadership roles within Dubai's mosques and to foster religious awareness and education within the community. The initiative seeks to empower young people to lead prayers and contribute meaningfully to the spiritual and educational fabric of Dubai society.
Targeted Training for Youth
Imam Al Farij provides a comprehensive four-month training program across 70 participating mosques throughout the city, targeting Dubai's youth aged 16 to 21. The program aims to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to take on leadership roles within their communities.
Registration Process Simplified
Interested parents can kickstart the journey for their children by bringing them to their nearest mosque after the afternoon prayer, beginning on May 1, to register for the program. The registration deadline is May 15, and further information can be obtained by contacting 800-600 or visiting IACAD's website. This streamlined registration process ensures that families can easily access this transformative opportunity.
Structured Curriculum for Holistic Development
The training curriculum is meticulously designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of religious leadership and practice. Divided into two age groups, the program offers educational sessions three days a week. Participants aged 16 to 21 engage in in-person sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays, with remote sessions on Fridays. Younger participants, aged 6 to 15, participate in remote sessions on Sundays and in-person sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Alignment with Dubai's Social Agenda 33
Dr. Mohammed Suhail Al Muhairi, director of the Masjid Religious Services and head of the Imam Al Farij initiative team, underscores the initiative's alignment with Dubai's Social Agenda 33. This agenda aims to foster stable families and empower future generations to be confident, resilient, and prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.
Clear Participation Criteria Ensures Accountability
With 70 designated mosques ready to receive participants, the initiative sets clear participation criteria, including registration through mosque imams and a minimum attendance requirement of 70 percent for each participant. This ensures accountability and commitment among participants, fostering a culture of dedication and excellence within the program.
Empowering Future Leaders
Imam Al Farij not only nurtures religious leadership but also instills a sense of confidence, identity, and purpose in Dubai's youth. By equipping them with the skills and knowledge to lead prayers and contribute meaningfully to their communities, the initiative paves the way for a generation of empowered leaders who are ready to shape the future of Dubai and beyond.
