Ambassador Faisal S. Al-Qabbani, the Saudi Ambassador to Djibouti, presided over the graduation ceremony of male and female students from the Islamic Institute in Djibouti on the evening of Thursday, May 16, 2024.
The ceremony marked the completion of the academic year 1445 and was attended by distinguished guests, including Dr. Nabil Mohammed Ahmed, the Minister of Education and Scientific Research in Djibouti, and Dr. Saleh Al-Shehri, the Director of the Institute. Several ambassadors, diplomats, and leaders also attended the occasion.
In his speech, Ambassador Al-Qabbani praised the Islamic Institute in Djibouti as a leading educational institution in the African continent. He highlighted its diverse range of disciplines, which have played a crucial role in promoting Islamic sciences, Arabic language, and Islamic culture in Africa.
Dr. Al-Shehri, the Institute's Director, expressed his gratitude for Ambassador Al-Qabbani's support in organizing the graduation ceremony. He pointed out that the event coincided with the Institute's forty-fifth anniversary and commended its continuous commitment to its mission. Dr. Al-Shehri recognized the Institute's achievements, enabled by the generous support of the Saudi government and the fruitful cooperation between Djibouti's government and its people. Dr. Al-Shehri added that: "The role of the institute has not been limited to the Republic of Djibouti, but its impact has extended to encompass the Horn of Africa. By the grace of Allah, it is steadily progressing towards achieving its desired goals to enhance its performance."
Furthermore, Dr. Al-Shehri thanked King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud for their unwavering support in serving Islam and Muslims. He also expressed appreciation to Prof. Ahmed S. Al-Ameri, the Minister of Education, and Dr. Ahmed bin Salem Al-Amiri, the President of Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University, for his constant care and support of the institute and its students.
Dr. Al-Shehri highlighted the Institute's significant progress in its teaching methods and academic programs. The Institute has embraced modern technology to create a conducive learning environment and ensure the students' educational and academic growth. He also emphasized the Institute's extracurricular activities, which encompass scientific, cultural, social, and sports events aimed at nurturing the students' overall development.
The graduation ceremony featured various segments, including a visual presentation showcasing the Institute's history and a poetic theatrical performance titled "Melody of Loyalty" presented by the graduating students. Ambassador Al-Qabbani and Dr. Al-Shehri concluded the ceremony by honoring the distinguished guests, participants, and exceptional students.