On Saturday morning the Abu Bakr Mosque on Southall Broadway celebrated the achievement of its students over the past year. This was to reward the children and teachers for their efforts and commitment.

As the month of ramadhan starts in the middle of next week, this celebration marked the end of mosque’s teaching calendar year. The oral and written exams took place earlier in the week.

The event was organised by Imam Asjad for the students and their immediate family only and took place before the Zuhr prayers. Over 200 students and family members attended the celebrations which consisted of

• Recitations of the Quran
• Naats and Nasheeds
• Poetry
• Speeches

by over 40 students of both sexes and of every age. One 5 year old boy recited the Quran, read a Hadith and recited a Nasheed in Arabic.

The mosque has about 12 classes offering Islamic education for different ages of children. Imam Asjad presented 3 prices to each class, the third prize of “Best Student” being awarded for “commitment and dedication” alone.

Each winner received a certificate as well as a present. The younger students had a choice of a packets of sweet or a large chocolate bar. The older students received bigger prizes.

There was also an award for best male and female teacher and a surprise award for Imam Asjad as well.

A few of the memorable saying mentioned are:

• If you love Allah, follow the example of the Prophet and Allah will love you
• You will not enter Heaven until you love one another
• All your devotion may not be enough if your children are not on the correct path