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In a world filled with distractions and negative influences, the academy has made it a core aim to nurture young Muslims to embody the best of Islamic teachings by focusing on behaviour development adab.
By NONTOBEKO AISHA MKHWANAZI
The Darus Saulieghien Quraan Academy (DSQA) stands at a crucial juncture in its journey, making community support more essential than ever.
Having outgrown its current location at Masjid Awam in Mitchells Plain, DSQA has initiated the Buy-a-School campaign to raise R3,5 million. The funds are needed to secure a new home in Portlands. Formerly a church, this building will offer the space and facilities the institution desperately needs to continue providing its unique blend of Islamic and academic education.
Established in 2018 with a commitment to nurture children both spiritually and academically, DSQA has always placed emphasis on raising the next generation of Muslims to not only excel in Quranic studies but also to prepare them to contribute positively to society. Currently, the academy serves over 150 students, but as more students enrol, the need for a bigger facility has become undeniable.
‘We started small, with just 20 children in my home, but over the years the institution has grown beyond what we could have ever imagined,’ says the principal of DSQA, Shaikh Abubakr Abduraghman.
Reflecting on the journey of the institution, Shaikh Abduraghman highlights that the Academy was a result of his analysis of how his children would attend a Quranic class and miss out on essential aspects of their secular education.
‘I realised that while it is important for our children to memorise the Quran, it is equally crucial for them to excel in their academic studies. Education should not be limited to religious teachings alone; it must encompass a well-rounded approach that prepares them for life in the modern world,’ says Shaikh Abduraghman.
He further notes that the institution strives to create a balanced environment where learners from the ages four to 17 can be empowered to be great future leaders grounded in beneficial knowledge without having to compromise in choosing between Islamic or secular knowledge.
‘Our vision at DSQA has always been to empower youth holistically, providing our learners with an integrated form of education that doesn’t compromise between religious and secular knowledge. Hence, we also offer academic tutoring and external matric qualifications. This also allows parents to not worry about their children’s future prospects,’ highlights Shaikh Abduraghman.
In a world filled with distractions and negative influences, the academy has made it a core aim to nurture young Muslims to embody the best of Islamic teachings by focusing on behaviour development (adab). He also notes that the new premises will not only be a Quran academy but will be a learning centre that will offer programmes for reverts, youth and adults to cater to the entire community.
He further notes that the institution ‘envisions this new location as a hub for learning, where both children and adults can come to acquire knowledge of the Quran and Sunnah. It will also create employment opportunities, further benefiting the community’.
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But to make this vision a reality, DSQA needs the help of the community. The ‘Buy a School’ campaign is more than just a fundraiser; it’s an investment in the future of Mitchells Plain and the broader Muslim community.
‘We believe that with the community’s support, we can make this dream come true. Every contribution, no matter how small, brings us closer to securing a brighter future for our children,’ saysShaikh Abduraghman.
Zaheer Janodien, one of the dedicated teachers at DSQA, states, ‘Our students consistently perform well academically, achieving impressive results in their studies. However, we face significant challenges due to the limitations of our current space. Securing new premises would allow us to create structured classrooms essential for focused learning and provide facilities tailored to both Quranic and secular education. With the right environment, I believe our students could reach even greater heights, enhancing their academic performance and supporting their personal development as well-rounded individuals ready to contribute positively to society.’
DSQA is described as a pillar of hope in the community by many parents, including Soraya Swarts.
‘The institution has been a transformative presence in my child’s life, instilling a love for learning that goes beyond textbooks. I truly want to see the academy provide this invaluable experience not just for my child, but for many more children in our area. That can only be possible if we, as the public, come together to support the academy and its mission.’
Yusuf Brenner, the father of two male students at the institution, echoes the parents’ admiration for DSQA’s efforts in the community.
‘The dedication of the staff is remarkable, and I am confident that with the acquisition of new premises, their ability to nurture and educate our children will reach new heights. The current facilities limit what they can achieve, but a proper space would allow them to enhance their curriculum and provide even more opportunities for our kids. This academy is vital for the growth of our youth, and I believe that together, we can help it flourish.’
The Academy is not only in need but is also offering the public a chance to be part of something bigger which is helping to build a future where children not only learn the Quran but also embody its teachings.
To contribute to this initiative, you can donate, sponsor, or simply spread the word. Every contribution counts in ensuring that the Academy can continue its vital work.
For more information, contact the DSQA principal, Shaikh Abubakr Abduraghman, at 072 218 9344, email: admin@dsqa.co.za, or visit the DSQA website: https://dsqa.co.za.
