Ref: AF/PR/032/24 Date: 23rd October 2024
In a significant milestone for the Khoja Shia Ithna Asheri Jamaat Kampala, the ground-breaking ceremony for the new Bilal Secondary School wing was held on Saturday, 14th September 2024.
The ground breaking ceremony took place at the site of the upcoming secondary school wing, located at Plot 106, William Street. The ceremony witnessed the presence of several key dignitaries including Africa Federation Hon. Secretary Alhaj Zuhair bhai Jaffer, Africa Federation Trustee and past Chairman Alhaj Shabir Najafi, Trustee of Punjani Charitable Trust, Alhaj Gulam Punjani, Kampala Jamaat Chairman Alhaj Shabbir Virani, Kampala Jamaat Executive Committee, Kampala Jamaat Board of Trustees and members of the Jamaat.
The proceedings began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by Hadise Kisa and a Qasida. This new secondary wing, a pivotal part of expanding educational opportunities, is being fully funded by the Punjani Charitable Trust.
The Punjani Charitable Trust, renowned for its dedication to supporting educational initiatives, was represented at the ceremony by Alhaj Gulam bhai Punjani, son of the Trust’s Chairman, Murabbi Mohammad Hussain Punjani, who was unable to attend in person due to prior commitments in Toronto, Canada. Gulam bhai expressed his family’s unwavering commitment to supporting projects that uplift the community through education, emphasizing that this secondary school will play a crucial role in shaping future leaders.
The AFED Hon. Secretary, Alhaj Zuhair Jaffer in his address conveyed Africa Federation Chairman Alhaj Amine bhai Nassor’s deep appreciation for the partnership between the Punjani Charitable Trust and the Kampala Jamaat, acknowledging the vital role such collaborations play in realizing the Federation's vision of educational empowerment across Africa. He also expressed the Federation’s commitment to the educational growth of the community, noting that the new secondary wing will greatly enhance opportunities for students to access quality education within the Jamaat.
Alhaj Shabir bhai Najafi, who has been a strong advocate for educational initiatives within the Federation, praised the efforts of all those involved in bringing this project to life, particularly recognizing the leadership and dedication of the Punjani family in their philanthropic endeavors.
On behalf of the Kampala Jamaat’s Board of Trustees, Alhaj Mustafa Kanji addressing the audience, underscored the long-term impact that the school’s expansion will have on the community. He highlighted the transformative potential of education, not only for the students but also for the wider society, and expressed hope that this institution would become a beacon of learning and excellence.
The ceremony marked a momentous step forward for the Bilal School and the community it serves, reaffirming the commitment to provide a nurturing environment for students to excel academically and morally. This expansion will enable the school to accommodate more students, offering them a robust curriculum that prepares them for the challenges of the modern world while grounding them in the values and ethics of their faith.
Below are few pictures of the Ground Breaking Ceremony:
This project serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of donors, community leaders, and institutions like the Punjani Charitable Trust, all working together to ensure a brighter future for the next generation.
Africa Federation Office Bearers wish to acknowledge and record its sincere appreciation to the Punjani Trust Foundation for fully sponsoring the entire Project. May Allah (SWT) grant them more tawfeeq and inspiration to continue with their noble endeavors, Aameen.
We pray to Allah (SWT) to grant maghferat to the Marhoomeen of Punjani Charitable Trust and to all the Marhoomeen. May Allah (SWT) elevate their station to be among those who are receiving His continuous grace and mercy, Aameen.
SECRETARIAT
Comments