On Saturday, November 23, 2024, the Deputy Mufti of Rwanda, Sheikh Mushumba Younus, awarded certificates to 30 students, including 26 boys and 4 girls, who completed seven years of studies in various subjects, including Islamic studies.
These students graduated from secondary school at Institut Islamic Al Hidaya in Nyarugenge District, gaining opportunities to pursue further studies in various universities worldwide.
Rania Happy, one of the graduates, shared her study tips, saying, “First, pray to God for guidance, stay committed to your studies, and maintain consistency by attending classes daily.” She emphasized the importance of regular attendance, noting, “Missing classes leads to gaps in learning, as you might not fully grasp what the teacher explains or take complete notes.”
She added that perseverance is key, especially for girls. “We started as nearly 30 girls, but most dropped out in the first year. Some left due to distractions, while others couldn’t handle the academic challenges. But with determination, you can overcome and succeed.”
Happy encouraged other girls not to give up, highlighting the significance of Islamic knowledge. “This knowledge is vital for teaching your future children, especially when your husband is at work. It also saves the cost of hiring someone to teach your child the Quran.”
Another graduate, Abdoul Shakul Hategekimana, reflected on the challenges, stating, “The journey was long and tough, but we thank God for helping us. We began with 90 students in 2017, but only 30 completed the program. Many dropped out due to financial constraints or personal reasons.”
Shakul emphasized that the education provided a strong foundation for life, particularly in religious knowledge. “Learning multiple languages helps in international outreach and spreading Islamic teachings to people who don’t understand Kinyarwanda, such as those speaking French, English, or Swahili.”
Ncuti Djihadi, the student leader, praised the unity among the students, saying, “Despite coming from different provinces with diverse cultures, we remained united and supportive.”
Sheikh Radjabu Nshimiyimana, in charge of discipline at Institut Islamic Al Hidaya, highlighted the integration of religious studies with Rwanda’s national curriculum. “This will enable our students to access both Islamic and conventional education, offering more opportunities for those who wish to continue their studies.”
Vice Mufti Mushumba Younus noted the challenges faced by female students, including financial difficulties and societal pressures. He also expressed optimism about integrating Islamic studies with the national education system, saying, “This combination will produce well-rounded graduates capable of addressing contemporary challenges while maintaining strong moral and religious values.”
Founded in 1971, Institut Islamic Al Hidaya has been a cornerstone of Islamic education in Rwanda, serving as the training ground for many Rwandan Sheikhs. The Rwanda Muslim Community (RMC) plans to expand by establishing universities and additional schools across provinces to ease access to quality Islamic education.
