Sabahuzafar, Missionary, New Zealand
On 5 October 2020, Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya New Zealand, in collaboration with Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Waikato, held a reception dinner in honour of teachers and educators on World Teachers’ Day. The theme this year was “Teachers: Leading in crisis, reimagining the future”.
The evening provided an occasion to express our gratitude to teachers for all they do. It was also an opportunity to take stock of achievements and draw attention to the voices of teachers. The theme this year was particularly fitting given how the Covid-19 pandemic significantly added to the challenges faced by already overextended education systems throughout the world.
Several dignitaries attended the event including the Mayor of Hamilton, Paula Southgate, Member of Parliament for Taranaki-King Country, Barbara Kuriger, Councillor Kesh Naidoo-Rauf, Chief Editor of the Waikato Times, Jonathan MacKenzie, President of the Waikato Interfaith Council, Reverend Andrew McKean and some other dignitaries, including professors, lecturers, head teachers, teachers and educators from across the region.
The reception began with a recitation from the Holy Quran. Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya New Zealand, Anas Sirjur Raheem Sahib then gave a brief, yet comprehensive introduction to Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya, followed by addresses from Mayor Southgate, MP Kuriger, Rev McKean and Principal West.
Khafia Munawer delivered a heartfelt speech expressing gratitude on behalf of all students to their teachers.
The reception concluded with an address from regional president Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Waikato, Dr Mohamed Shahidul Hassan Sahib, who outlined the high status of teachers and educators in Islam.
After some final thoughts from myself, the reception came to a close with silent prayer. Guests were then treated to a delicious buffet dinner prepared by our members.
For many, it was the first time they had attended a “World Teacher’s Day” reception and dinner. The guests sincerely appreciated the gesture and commended the Ahmadiyya Community for continuing to set the benchmark of loyalty to one’s nation and for being engaged and active contributors in our respective communities, alhamdolillah.