Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin
The Muslim community in the Kwara State Polytechnic has held its maiden edition of the Ramadan lecture, geared towards fostering spiritual growth and community bonding among the staff and students of the institution.
The programme which took place at the Muhammed Alabi Lawal Auditorium, brought together the staff, students, and members of the community to engage in meaningful discourse on the ethical guidelines of Islam and their applicability in modern life.
Delivering the first lecture entitled “Islamic Ethics in a Working Environment: Placing a Special Emphasis on the Importance of Trust”, the Polytechnic Chief Imam, Muhammed Bello, emphasised the importance of trustworthiness and ethical conduct in the workplace, stressing that trust, or ‘Amanah,’ is a cornerstone of ethical conduct in the workplace.
Drawing his teachings from the glorious Qur’an and Hadith, the Imam urged attendees to cultivate a culture of honesty and integrity, not only as a reflection of their faith but as a means to enhance productivity and harmony within the institution.
Following the Chief Imam’s enlightening lecture, the Deputy Imam of the institution, Barrister U. S. Imam who delivered the second lecture titled “Zakat: A Divine Means of Poverty Alleviation”, elaborated on the significance of Zakat in Islam as a mandatory act of charity intended to support the less fortunate in society.
Barrister Imam encouraged staff and students to embrace the practice of giving and to view Zakat not just as a financial contribution but as moral duty that fosters community solidarity and combats poverty.
In his opening remarks, the Rector of the institution, Engr. Dr. Abdul Jimoh Muhammed, who commended the Muslim community for organizing such a meaningful event, underscored the necessity for all staff to embody Islamic virtues such as sincerity, diligence, and community service.
He specifically urged attendees to shun backbiting, hypocrisy, and other vices that are condemned in the holy Qur’an, noting that the progress of the institution relies not only on staff professional competence but also on their ability to adhere to the moral teachings of Islam in their daily interactions.
The Deputy Rector Academic, Mr. Lawal Babatunde Abdulquadri and the Ag. Registrar, Mr. Abdulhafis Amin, urged attendees to take the lessons learned to heart and implement them in their daily lives for the betterment of the institution and the broader community.
They also advised the staff to discharge their duties diligently and avoid indulging in corrupt practices which are contrary to Islamic tenets and can undermine the integrity of the institution.
The maiden Ramadan lecture series provided a platform for staff and students to reflect on their spiritual values and professional conduct.
The event also promoted a sense of community and reinforced the importance of upholding Islamic principles in all aspects of life.
Leave a Reply