New Delhi-based Ideal Relief Trust's initiative stands as a testament to the importance of adapting traditional education to meet the evolving needs of the communities in the modern era.
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI — In a groundbreaking move, Ideal Relief Trust, a New Delhi-based NGO, has initiated a free training program to hone the skills of imams and muezzins in the digital world and to make them computer-savvy.
This unprecedented endeavour has garnered significant support and witnessed enthusiastic participation from the Muslim community. The Innovation and Skill Training Centre (ISTC) in South Delhi’s Jamia Nagar area is collaborating with the NGO in providing the training.
The program, launched in late November, specifically targets imams and muezzins of Jamia Nagar mosques, extending an invitation to enroll in a three-month computer course offered at the NGO’s state-of-the-art skill training center.
Dr. Arif Nadvi, General Secretary of Ideal Relief Trust, happily noted that the response has been overwhelming. He said the inaugural batch, comprising 28 individuals, has successfully enrolled in the course this month. Admission for the upcoming batch are currently open.
“We are delighted with the initiation of the first batch, where 28 individuals have enrolled. Our aim is to empower the imams. Computer skills have become imperative for everyone, and there is no reason our imams should lag behind. This training is being provided completely free of charge,” Dr. Nadvi emphasised.
The comprehensive computer training encompasses essential programs commonly used in daily life. Ehtesham Ahmed, a dedicated computer trainer at the centre, commended the commitment of the students, stating, “The training of imams and muezzins has only been a month, but their eagerness to learn is evident. They are engaged in the learning process with great interest.”
Hafiz Shakeel Ahmad, the muezzin and deputy imam of Masjid Ishaate Islam, shared his transformative experience, stating, “We have not only acquired email skills but also learned to book tickets and perform various tasks online that were previously beyond our capabilities. The training has been immensely beneficial.”
Muhammad Yasin, another participant, expressed his gratitude, saying, “As soon as I learned that this course is being offered for free, I joined without hesitation. The benefits I am receiving are invaluable.”
Imam Ghulam Mustafa of the mosque located in Bhaskar Compound of the area highlighted the positive impact of the training, stating, “Our teacher imparted invaluable knowledge. We used to rely on others for minor tasks, but now we can do them ourselves. This is a great blessing for us.”
The program not only equips imams and muezzins with essential computer skills but has also earned acclaim for fostering self-reliance and empowerment within the community. Ideal Relief Trust’s initiative stands as a testament to the importance of adapting traditional education to meet the evolving needs of communities in the modern era.
