Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has announced the Government’s commitment to expanding the Quran recitation project, aiming to produce 100 Hafizs annually.

The statement was made during the Huffaz Graduation ceremony, a newly introduced event recognising those who have successfully memorised and recited the Holy Quran.

Speaking at the ceremony, held at the Islamic Centre, Minister Dr Shaheem described the occasion as historic. He highlighted the Government’s initiative to prioritise Quranic education and emphasised that the decision to formally confer the title of Hafiz reflected this commitment. According to the minister, the demand for Quranic knowledge is significant worldwide, and the Government is determined to strengthen efforts in nurturing a generation well-versed in Quranic teachings.

Minister Dr Shaheem noted that this year’s graduation marks the highest number of Hafizs completing their studies in a single year. He reiterated the Government’s goal to increase this number further, ultimately ensuring that at least 100 individuals achieve Hafiz status annually.

To facilitate this expansion, the project will be extended to every island with an Islamic centre. Additionally, Quran recitation initiatives will be introduced in mosques across all islands. The Government has pledged continued support for Quranic education, including funding for recitation centres, Quran classes, and Hifz programmes to enhance accessibility and participation.

The minister also urged the public to support these efforts, stressing the spiritual significance of memorising the Quran. Addressing the newly recognised Hafizs, he described their achievement as a divine blessing and encouraged them to make full use of this opportunity to uphold and share their knowledge.