The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, in collaboration with the Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities, has launched the “Localization of Imams” programme. This initiative aims to train and qualify Emirati imams and preachers, focusing on developing citizens in various Sharia fields.
Running for four months, the programme includes 25 participants and covers a range of essential topics. These include imam jurisprudence, linguistic skills, Tajweed and phonetics, major ethical values of an imam, Sheikh Zayed’s legacy, and intellectual security. Participants will also learn psychology, sociology, elocution, and the arts of rhetoric, alongside practical training to prepare them for their roles.
At the launch, Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Chairman of the General Authority, highlighted the programme’s alignment with the UAE government’s strategy. He emphasized the importance of having imams who are educated, moderate, and deeply connected to their national identity. He noted that the UAE’s mosques serve as models of civilization, free from extremism and chaos, aiming to nurture imams who embody human values and keep pace with global developments.
Dr. Al Darei reiterated that localizing mosque positions is a national policy, reinforcing President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s vision of empowering national cadres. He expressed that every citizen who joins this field is a source of pride for the nation, ensuring the continuity of distinguished religious competencies.
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Dr. Mohamed Rashed Al Hameli, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at the university, stressed that this programme embodies the leadership’s vision of enhancing the scientific and intellectual capabilities of religious cadres. The comprehensive curriculum includes diverse subjects like intonation, interpretation, Maliki jurisprudence, and public speaking, all aimed at producing a capable and well-rounded batch of imams. He concluded by thanking the General Authority for their ongoing support in building a brighter future for the nation’s religious leaders.
