As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, Salam TV, in collaboration with Salam Charity, hosted an orientation for its on-air sheikhs at Crystal Suites. The session, graced by the Managing Director of Salam TV and Salam Charity alongside other management members, was designed to prepare the sheikhs to deliver impactful Islamic teachings to their diverse audience during this sacred period.
Sheikh Mustafah Mutuuhe, Operations Manager at Salam TV, set the tone by urging the sheikhs to create content that resonates with a wide-ranging audience, including non-Muslims. Drawing inspiration from Surat Taha, verse 114—“My Lord, increase me in knowledge”—he emphasized the importance of a deeper understanding of the Quran, encouraging the sheikhs to prioritize continuous learning to address evolving societal needs.
“Presenting Islam to the masses requires not just knowledge but wisdom, adaptability, and inclusivity,” Sheikh Mutuuhe remarked, stressing the need for the sheikhs to maintain professionalism while engaging with viewers from different backgrounds.
Hajji Karim Kaliisa, the meeting chairman, proposed mentorship programs for the Operations Manager, facilitated by seasoned Islamic scholars like Sheikh Abubakar Musoke. He emphasized that such initiatives would empower the on-air sheikhs to refine their skills in ethics, public speaking, and audience engagement.
In his address, Hajji Kaliisa encouraged the sheikhs to become role models and actively address key societal challenges, particularly among youth and women. He highlighted core attributes for effective communication, including authenticity, credibility, creativity, and respect.
Salam TV’s Programs Manager, Umar Busuulwa, outlined areas for improvement among the on-air sheikhs, such as live TV management, audience engagement, and handling diverse viewpoints. He urged the sheikhs to prioritize preparation, embrace feedback, and approach their roles with discipline and professionalism. "Consistency and adaptability are critical in delivering a message that connects," Busuulwa noted.
Keynote speaker Sheikh Idris Kasujja delivered a powerful message on the significance of preparation and relevance. He urged the sheikhs to stay informed on current global and local issues to better relate Islamic teachings to real-world contexts. Sheikh Kasujja reminded attendees of their vital role in bridging the gap between Muslims and the wider world.
The orientation concluded with a renewed commitment to excellence, as the sheikhs pledged to uphold the values of Islam while adapting their delivery for a contemporary audience. This initiative underscores Salam TV’s dedication to enhancing its programming during Ramadan, fostering a deeper understanding of Islamic values across diverse communities.
