Uganda will participate in this year’s international Quran and Hadith competition organized by the King of Saudi Arabia, Salman bin Abdul Aziz.
The country will be represented by Aiman Kavuma, a Primary Seven pupil at Ibin Salaam Primary School in Masaka, who earned his spot after excelling in local Quran recitations.
The global contest will be hosted in South Africa in the coming days, drawing participants from across the Muslim world.
Religious leaders from Masaka, led by Sheikh Khasim Abdallah Mutazindwa, hailed Kavuma’s selection as a milestone, describing it as a rare opportunity for Uganda to showcase its young talent on the international Islamic stage.
Dr. Sheikh Kasim Mutazindwa, also the head teacher of Ibin Salaam Primary School, said the honor was not only for the school but for the nation.
“It is a privilege that one of our pupils has been chosen to represent Uganda. Learning the Quran and Hadith shapes children into disciplined, well-mannered individuals,” he said, adding that Uganda could one day host similar competitions if interest continues to grow.
Kavuma expressed confidence in his preparation.
“With Allah’s help, I will win this competition because I am well prepared,” he said.
His teacher, Sheikh Abdul Ratif Wassajja, reassured him of support and urged him to remain calm during the contest.
“He has been thoroughly trained. I encouraged him not to fear people or the questions he will face,” Wassajja noted.
Fellow pupils also wished Kavuma success, praying that he answers all questions with courage and brings victory home.
Uganda’s participation in the prestigious contest highlights the growing commitment of Islamic schools to nurturing religious knowledge and values among the youth.