ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORTER
The 40th National Quran Memorization and Recitation Competition, organized by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, has officially commenced in Islamabad. The two-day event was inaugurated by Federal Secretary for Religious Affairs, Dr. Syed Ata ur Rehman, who highlighted the importance of such competitions in inspiring the younger generation to recite and deeply engage with the Holy Quran and its related sciences.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr. Rehman emphasized that the Ministry will continue to encourage and support Huffaz (those who have memorized the Quran) and Qaris (reciters) from across the country. He noted that participants in the national competition have been selected through rigorous district and provincial-level contests held nationwide.
Competitors from all four provinces, including Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Islamabad, and the Armed Forces, are taking part in the prestigious event. Four separate categories have been dedicated to female participants, including Hafizahs and Qariyahs (female memorizers and reciters), ensuring broad representation and inclusivity.
The winners of the competition will be announced on Thursday and will receive cash prizes, along with the honor of representing Pakistan in international Quran recitation and memorization contests. A panel of four senior Qaris and Khateebs is serving as judges to ensure the integrity and quality of the evaluation process.
The event reflects the government’s commitment to promoting Quranic education and celebrating excellence in memorization and recitation across the nation.