Calicut: The annual Khatmul Bukhari & Convocation Conference of Markaz concluded with a grand gathering, attended by thousands of participants. A total of 509 Saquafi scholars, who have completed their higher studies at Markaz, were awarded degrees as they embarked on their journey of service to society. This year’s graduates are from 15 states across India.
Tashkent Supreme Imam Sheikh Rahmatullah Tirmudi inaugurated the event, and Grand Mufti of India and Markaz General Secretary, Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad (Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliyar) delivered the keynote address. In his speech, he emphasized that only moral education can cultivate a peaceful and harmonious society. He attributed the growing prevalence of issues such as drug abuse and ragging in higher education institutions to the influence of liberal ideologies. He called upon government agencies and the education sector to integrate social awareness and moral values into the academic curriculum.
The concluding ceremony commenced at 5 PM with a prayer led by Markaz President Sayyed Ali Bafaqi Thangal. Samastha Kerala Jamiyathul Ulama President E. Sulaiman Musliyar presided over the function, while Sayyed Umar Bin Hafiz was the chief guest. Markaz Rector Dr. Muhammad Abdul Hakkim Azhari delivered the introductory speech, and Markaz Director General C. Muhammad Faizi presented the keynote address. Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad officially conferred the graduation honors upon the scholars entering the professional field.
The event also marked the announcement of the 50th-anniversary celebrations of Markaz, highlighting its contributions to education and social welfare over the past five decades. Notably, the first-ever Shahul Hamid Baqavi Memorial National Social Development Award, instituted to honor individuals making exemplary contributions to education at the national level, was conferred upon Maulana Muhammad Saeed Noori, head of Mumbai-based Raza Academy.
As part of the conference, a series of programs, including the Edu Symposium, Hadith Conference, and Saquafi Shura Council, were held from 10 AM onwards. The distribution of official attire for scholars also took place during the event. Among the distinguished speakers were Ponmala Abdul Qadir Musliyar, Perode Abdurahman Saquafi, Sayyed Taha Thangal Saquafi, Dr. Hussain Saquafi Chullicode, and Dr. T. Abubakar. CP Ubaidullah Saquafi extended a warm welcome to the attendees, while P. Muhammad Yusuf delivered the vote of thanks.
The conference witnessed the presence of numerous eminent figures from social, educational, and religious sectors, along with national and international dignitaries.
A significant highlight of the conference is the Khatmul Bukhari Conference, scheduled for Monday morning. This event marks the 60th anniversary of Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad’s distinguished tenure in teaching Sahih al-Bukhari, a revered Islamic text considered the most authentic after the Holy Quran. The scholarly community and general public hold this conference in high regard, as it will bring together world-renowned scholars, Islamic leaders, and distinguished representatives of Samsta Kerala Jamiatul Ulama.
With a rich legacy of educational and social initiatives, Markaz continues to shape the intellectual and moral landscape of society, fostering future leaders committed to service and social harmony.