Monthly Quran Memorization Initiative Strengthens Children’s Connection with the Quran in Bhatkal

Bhatkal: A remarkable educational initiative aimed at strengthening the religious and moral upbringing of the younger generation is gaining momentum in Bhatkal, one of Coastal Karnataka’s leading educational and commercial centres. For the past six months, the Shabeena Maktab at Masjid Syedina Abubakar Siddiq, Rahmat Abad has been successfully organizing monthly Quran memorization competitions focused on selected Surahs of the Holy Quran.

The latest event in the series, a Surah Al Waqi’ah Memorization Competition, was held on 7 Muharram 1448 Hijri. The programme marked the third major competition conducted under this initiative and witnessed enthusiastic participation from students.

Designed exclusively for schoolgoing children who attend the Maktab for Islamic education after their regular classes, the competition excludes students pursuing full time Hifz studies. Participants from Class 4 to SSLC are eligible to take part, encouraging a wider section of students to engage with the Quran alongside their academic education.

Teachers announce the selected Surah one month in advance, allowing students sufficient time to prepare. Before the final competition, participants undergo a screening process, and only those who meet the required standards qualify for the final stage.

The initiative began with a competition on Surah Al Mulk, followed by Surah As Sajdah. The recently concluded Surah Al Waqi’ah competition continued this successful tradition. According to the organizers, the primary objective is to help children memorize important Surahs commonly recited in daily life while strengthening their attachment to the Quran and the mosque.

This year, students once again displayed remarkable dedication and preparation. A total of 13 students qualified for the final competition and presented their memorization with excellent pronunciation and proper Tajweed.

The organizers expressed their appreciation to Maulana Inamul Haq Malpa Nadvi and Maulana Ali Tibyan Armar Nadvi, who served as judges for the event and evaluated the participants’ performances.

Competition Results

First Place
Hammad, son of Maulana Iqbal Naite

Second Place
Syed Arshan, son of Syed Akram Barmawar

Third Place (Joint Winners)
Aban, son of Abdul Samee Khatib

Muhammad, son of Javeed Siddi Bapa

Muhammad Zubair, son of Dhameer Ruknuddin

In keeping with the Maktab’s policy of encouraging every participant, prizes and gifts were distributed not only to the winners but also to all students who took part in the competition.

To further motivate students, the Maktab has established a reward system that recognizes those who maintain full attendance throughout the month. Students with near perfect attendance are also acknowledged for their commitment and consistency.

Parents and guardians have praised the initiative, describing it as an effective effort to nurture Islamic values, strengthen moral character, and keep children connected to the Quran in an age of growing distractions. They believe such programmes help students balance modern education with essential religious learning.

The organizers have announced that the next memorization competition will focus on Surah Yaseen. The date will be announced in due course, and students have been encouraged to participate with the same enthusiasm and dedication demonstrated in previous competitions.