The third batch of Young Khatheeb Training Programme has kicked off with over 250 young participants taking part in the programme. This year’s training is being held at the Islamic Centre auditorium.
The shortage of imams and khateebs in many islands has led to the reliance on foreign imams and the need to bring in khateebs from abroad, especially during Ramadan. The government has initiated a nationwide effort to produce trained khateebs across the country to tackle this issue.
Among these efforts, the Young Khatheeb programme remains the most successful initiative, according to the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. While two batches have already completed the programme, the third batch began their training on Thursday, with a total of 257 participants, both offline and online. The training will be conducted over three sessions.
Ashraf Ibrahim, the coordinator of the Young Khatheeb training programme, told PSM News that some students living abroad and from the atolls are taking part in the programme. Ashraf said the programme is well received by the students, he said. A test will be given to participants upon completion of the sessions, and those who pass will receive an official Khatheeb certification.
Some of the programme participants shared their sentiments and experiments regarding the programme with PSM News.
"This is something I have really wanted since I was a child. I am really happy to have this opportunity made so accessible,” a participant said.
"Being a Khatheeb carries great spiritual reward, and I am very happy to pursue this field. The programme taught a lot of in-depth knowledge on what nullifies the wudhu, the responsibilities of imams and deputy imams,” shared another.
“It is clear how well the programme is received, just by the number of participants in this programme. I am very thankful that this programme is conducted with the participation of so many youth,” another said.
The Young Khatheeb programme is aimed at building young people who will become imams and deliver sermons, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs said. So far, more than 300 students have completed the programme through the first two batches. Some graduates have already begun serving as imams in the atolls and in the cities.