– Raheem Khan
Baran: The three-day ‘Junior Students Festival’ organized by Students Islamic Organization of India (SIO) Rajasthan concluded in Mangrol, Baran district, showcasing the talents of over 20 participating teams from across the state. Salim Akhtar, the program coordinator, emphasized that the festival aimed to nurture children’s skills and prepare them for future challenges.
During the closing ceremony, outstanding participants were recognized for their achievements in various competitions. Idrak Academy from Sawai Madhopur secured first place in the drama competition, followed by Stone Hills Academy, Modak, in second and JAC Wazirpur in third.
In the group song category, JAC Sangod took first place, with Idrak Academy and Redrose School Makrana earning second and third respectively. The speech competition saw Madarsa Khair-ul-Madaris Bans Kheda claim the top spot, with Idrak Academy and Stone Hills Academy following.
Medals were awarded to talented young participants during the ceremony, which featured prominent figures, including Advocate Anis-ur-Rehman, National Secretary of SIO; Shahid Khan, State General Secretary of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind; and Asim Khan, National President of the Fraternity Movement of India.
Anis-ur-Rehman remarked that education should extend beyond job preparation to include contributing to national reconstruction, while Shahid Khan emphasized teachers’ roles in advancing students. Asim Khan praised the children’s exceptional performances, highlighting their inherent talents.
The festival commenced on September 27 at Karbala Maidan, Mangrol, with speeches from Mohammad Adil, SIO State President, and Mohammad Nazimuddin, JIH State President, who both stressed the importance of holistic development for youth. Mohammad Shoaib, SIO Rajasthan Secretary, noted that the festival included various competitions in sports and arts.
Athletic events, including sprint races, relay races, and tug-of-war, were held at Bawdi Ground, while artistic competitions took place in the evenings. The festival’s diverse offerings aimed to encourage all-around development in young participants, equipping them to recognize and cultivate their talents for societal contributions.
