Ahmadiyya Muslim Students Association of Ghana, University of Cape Coast, Organises a week celebration every academic year in the second semester, one of our cherished traditions. Indeed, that eventful week is not only a time of festivity but a period of deep reflection, spiritual rejuvenation, and community bonding. This is a period where, as a chapter, we come together to manifest our faith, discuss important issues, and strengthen the bond that knits us together in the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.
From the enlightening excursions at the National Headquarters and MTA Studios to the intellectual and engaging exhibitions, all the different experiences of the celebrations enrich our spiritual and social lives. Each activity is well thought out to engender unity, knowledge, and devotion among members, leaving an indelible mark beyond university life. And so this year was no exception as we cherished a week of memorable events that reflected our strong commitment to faith, education, and community.
Below, we recall some of the highs of this year's week-long celebrations. Come with us for a trip down memory lane as we revisit the scenes that set the tone for our get-together that have stiffened our resolve as Ahmadi Muslims and refreshed our memory about the values we hold so close to our hearts.
Day 1: Inter-Jama'at Academic Competition
Our week-long celebrations commenced with a major exciting Inter-Jama'at Academic Competition, where six Jama'ats took part: Amamoma, Newsite, Oldsite, Ayensu, Kwaprow, and SRC. Participants competed in the following categories:
- Quiz
- Writing
- Message Delivery
- Pick and Act
- Quran Memorization
- Quran Recitation
Participants were taken through a test under the Memorization category as follows:
1st and 2nd rukuu of Suratul Baqarah
Ayyatul Kursiyy
Last rukuu of Suratul Baqarah
1st rukuu of Suratul Kahf
Any chapter from Suratud Duha to Suratun Nas
Extempore Speech: This competition provided its members with a chance to show their prepared speeches ranging from the sacrifice of material means, betting/playing chance, or, easy steps to repentance, Salat and its blessings, fornication/adultery, and responsibilities of a Khadim/Lajna.
We were graced to have Maulvi Abdulhameed Sawiri, Zonal Missionary, Abura Zone, grace the occasion as the chairman. He was also a co-judge on the panel together with AMSAG Imam, Hafiz Khalid Aikins. Mr Rafiqur-Rahman Donkor was a dynamic MC for the night.
Day 2: Launching the Week-Long Celebrations
We had our theme for the week-long celebration as "Empowering Tomorrow's Leaders: Shaping the Future of Ahmadiyya" and launched the same officially on Sunday, July 7th, 2024. It was an activity-filled day with multiple interactive sessions and workshops, which were designed in a way to inspire and equip our members to leadership.
The keynote speaker for the day was Mr. Usman Kojo Ibrahim, former president, who gave an enthusiastic address entitled "Building Resilience and Adaptability: Essential Skills for Ahmadi Leaders in a Changing World".
The said career development workshop was facilitated by our president, Salim Ahmad Boaheng, a Career Peer Coach with the UCC System Change Programme for Employability. During this, some of the most important subject areas touched on included LinkedIn, building a CV/Resume, preparing for an internship, and getting ready for NSS.
We were indeed honoured to have with us our Patron, Dr Musah Dankwah, and the Zonal Qaid, Mr Alhassan Asumani, who gave valuable insights and motivated us to take heed of the theme for the week.
Day 3 & 4: Literature Exhibition & Religious Dialogue
As part of our weekly celebrations, AMSAG-UCC hosted its annual exhibition on Thursday, July 11th and Friday, July 12th, 2024. This indeed showcased deep literature from the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community into religious discussions.
Details of the Event:
Date: Thursday, July 11th to Friday, July 12th, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM each day
Venue: Parliament Grounds
We were graced with the presence of the delegates from Review of Religions Ghana: Maulvi Tahir Essel, Zonal Missionary; Maulvi Abdulhameed Sawiri, Circuit Missionary; Muallim Ahmad Boaheng, MKA Central-West Regional Qaid Mr. Jamil Rahman Nyame, accompanied by his Naib Regional Qaid Mr. Abdul Hameed Mohammed Essuman.
The attendees got a glimpse of many Jama'at literary pieces and had a chance to engage in a reflective discussion on religious matters. The exposition enabled us to communicate with other members of the community as well as an increase in our knowledge of our religion.
Special Add-Up: Faith Matters Radio Show!
As part of our week-long celebrations, AMSAG-UCC was privileged to be part of a popular radio show on Cape 93.3 FM, "Faith Matters." The show hosted by Mr. Abdul Hameed Mohammed Essuman had in attendance two insightful discussants: Maulvi Abdulhameed Sawiri and Muallim Ahmad Boaheng, on the topic: "Hijrah: Safe Arrival at Madina."
Following the enriching religious dialogue, AMSAG-UCC representatives were interviewed about our association. We shared our mission and activities, and also the reason for our weekly celebrations, focusing on Islamic values, academic excellence, and community service among our members.
This special add-up was a great way in which we showcased our vibrant community and reached out to a larger audience.
Day 5: Excursion into Greater Accra
The weeklong celebrations were crowned on Saturday, July 13th, 2024, with a stirring excursion in Greater Accra via some key sites that included a Courtesy Call on the National Headquarters of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission, Ghana; the Wahab Adam Studios, MTA Ghana Studios; the Kwame Nkrumah Museum; and the Legon Botanical Gardens.
It was not only instructive but also became a great opportunity for members to get closer and go deep into the enriching history and culture of our region.
Thanks to everybody who participated and made our week-long celebrations a memorable success. Let us continue to work together and be inspired the shaping of the future of Ahmadiyya!