Speakers commend school’s 25-year legacy of combining Islamic and modern education, charge graduates to live by the Qur’an

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

The Emir of Nasarawa, Alhaji Ibrahim Usman Jibril, and other dignitaries have commended Esteem Learning Centre for its contribution to Islamic and western education, urging newly graduated Huffaz to uphold the teachings of the Holy Qur’an in their daily lives.

Speaking at the school’s Qur’an graduation ceremony held as part of activities marking its Silver Jubilee, the Emir praised the institution for producing many successful individuals who are making meaningful contributions in different professions. He said the achievements of the school’s former students reflect its impact on society.

The traditional ruler also commended the management for its commitment to nurturing future leaders and encouraged the school to remain dedicated to its mission, reminding the institution that “to whom much is given, much is expected.” He wished the school continued success and progress in the years ahead.

In his welcome address, the Proprietor of Esteem Learning Centre, Mr. Musa Sani, described the occasion as one of the happiest and most emotional moments in the history of the institution, saying the ceremony celebrated not only academic excellence but also the preservation of the words of Allah in the hearts of the children.

He reminded the graduands that their greatest honour was not the certificates they received but that “the Qur’an now lives within your hearts,” urging them to continue revising, reflecting on and living by its teachings.

According to him, the true Hafiz is not only the one who memorises the Qur’an but also the one who allows its teachings to shape character, guide decisions, promote honesty, humility, compassion, discipline and excellent conduct.

Sani also appreciated parents for their sacrifices, prayers and encouragement, as well as Qur’an teachers, Islamic scholars and mentors for their patience and dedication in nurturing the graduates. He said Esteem Learning Centre was founded on the belief that excellence in modern education and Islamic education should go hand in hand, adding that the school’s 25-year journey has produced generations of students making positive contributions to society.

Representing the President of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation, Her Excellency Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu, Dr. Aisha Sulaiman praised parents, teachers and school leaders for their patience, sacrifice and commitment to the children’s success.

She described Esteem Learning Centre as “a symbol of excellence, faith, determination and knowledge,” adding that listening to the Huffaz recite the Qur’an was deeply emotional.

Dr. Sulaiman reminded the graduates that completing the memorisation of the Qur’an marked the beginning of their Qur’anic journey and encouraged them to continue reading, memorising and living by the Qur’an every day.

She prayed that Allah accepts their recitation, makes the Qur’an an intercessor for them and their parents on the Day of Judgment, and grants them the ability to practise its teachings throughout their lives.