– Radiance News Service
Chennai, 27 Sep: In an enlightening event organized by the Women’s Department of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Chennai Metro, the Director of Expansion, Mrs. Athiya Siddiqua, shared invaluable insights into the organization’s relentless efforts to empower women and extend their reach within the city of Chennai. This report encapsulates the highlights of the event, including Mrs. Siddiqua’s profound responses to critical questions, the dynamic discussions that ensued, and the impactful vision she laid out for women’s empowerment.
The event commenced with an inspiring session deeply rooted in the teachings of the Qur’ān by Mrs. Parveen, setting the stage for an intellectually stimulating and spiritually enriching gathering. The warmth of hospitality enveloped the venue as Mrs. Fatima Jalal, Secretary of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry State Women’s Wing, extended a gracious welcome to all attendees.
On ‘how to handle sisters who attend classes for their personal benefits rather than focusing on learning Islam,’ Mrs. Siddiqua emphasized the critical importance of teaching lies not only in the fundamentals of Islam and essential knowledge but also in practical skills that can enable women to earn livelihood. Her vision transcends conventional education, aiming to become an indispensable pillar of support within society.
She expressed the need for their organization to be a beacon of hope, where individuals instinctively turn to them when in need. This altruistic approach distinguishes JIH from conventional NGOs.
She reiterated their commitment to not just correcting individuals but also guiding and supporting them on their journey towards success in the Hereafter.
On ‘how to address the issue where multiple organizations or Jamaats are working for teaching women Islamic knowledge, leading to sisters avoiding our programs,’ she advocated for respectful and constructive communication, urging her audience to refrain from using negative language when discussing other organizations.
She recognized the challenge posed by multiple organizations working towards a similar goal and recommended focusing on areas where Islamic education is currently lacking. Strategically identifying these underserved regions, she suggested that their organization could make a more significant impact and effectively spread Islamic knowledge. Furthermore, she underscored the vast opportunities available globally to promote Islamic teachings and advised exploring uncharted territories as a means of expanding their reach.
On ‘how to engage sisters from slum areas who can only allocate evenings or nighttime for learning due to work constraints,’ she addressed the needs of sisters in slum areas with time constraints due to work obligations, and proposed a comprehensive approach. She suggested conducting surveys in these areas to identify educated sisters and engaging knowledgeable individuals for support.
To initiate contact, she recommended hosting informal tea gatherings as a friendly and welcoming approach. The choice of topics for discussion would revolve around introspective themes, encouraging individuals to reflect on their life’s purpose, their preparations for the Hereafter, and their accountability before Allah.
To accommodate their schedules, she advised securing the support of families and actively involving family members in the learning process. Additionally, she emphasized the importance of training local sisters to carry forward the work and guide others, ensuring a sustained impact in such areas.
Mrs. Siddiqua also offered an array of recommendations to invigorate classes, Bayans, or sessions by infusing them with intensity through the incorporation of quizzes, competitions, and the allure of prizes. Preparation and comprehensive understanding of the topics to be discussed were paramount in her guidance. She highlighted the necessity of genuinely caring for the well-being of the sisters attending their programs and encouraged expanding the scope of discussions to encompass relevant topics such as health issues and current affairs.
Recognizing the waning reading habit in contemporary society, she passionately urged dedicating time to reading books. Moreover, she ardently called for breaking away from monotonous routines in programs, advocating the introduction of innovative ideas and fresh perspectives in classes. She highlighted that when we sit at home, we are safe, just like how an airplane is safe when it’s at the airport. It doesn’t face any problems there. However, when it takes off, it has to go through many challenges. Similarly, we too are safe and comfortable at home, but we need to come out of our comfort zone and be ready to face various situations. We must handle all those situations with great patience.
The event also featured addresses by esteemed figures, including National Assistant Secretary of the Women’s Department, Mrs. Rabia Basri, JIH Chennai Metro Secretary, Mrs. Rakeela Noman, and Assistant Secretary, Mrs. Hameeda.
Mrs. Athiya Siddiqua’s insights serve as a beacon of hope for women empowerment and the dissemination of Islamic knowledge within diverse communities. Her vision, rooted in compassion and innovation, paves the way for a brighter and more enlightened future.
