A delegation of students participating in the Umrah pilgrimage organised by the World Assembly of Muslim Youth (WAMY) and the Ministry of Islamic Affairs has departed for Saudi Arabia.

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs stated that the trip is part of the Islamic Leadership Programme, an initiative announced by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu during this year’s Presidential Address.

Students from the Maldives National University (MNU), Islamic University of Maldives (IUM), Villa College, Zikura International College, Centre for Higher Secondary Education (CHSE), Ahmadhiyya International School, and Hiraa School, along with young khatibs, are participating in the pilgrimage.

The study tour, taking place from 14 to 21 February, includes educational sessions and visits to significant Islamic sites in Mecca and Medina.

This initiative builds on previous efforts by the Islamic Ministry to provide training and international exposure to religious scholars. Last year, imams and khatheebs were sent to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia for professional development and religious training.

The World Assembly of Muslim Youth is an international organisation that organises conferences and educational workshops aimed at preserving the identity of Muslim youth and helping them overcome challenges they face.