
Providing in-depth understanding to one of the core pillars of Islam, Sohaba Nursery and Primary School in Oke-Eletu Ikorodu, organised a significant Hajji Training event for its pupils on the 6th of June 2024.
The training session tagged ‘Mock Hajj’, was not only educational but also designed to be a memorable experience for the young students, demonstrating the importance and procedures of Hajji, the fifth pillar of Islam.
Featuring activities like Quiz for Primary Pupils and Pre-school watching the story of Prophet Ibrahim, the program commenced within the school premises, extending to a nearby field for practical demonstrations.
Graced by parents, guardians, and teachers, the turnout was impressive, highlighting the community’s commitment to religious education and the holistic development of the children.
Structured to be both informative and engaging, with practical demonstrations that simulated the key components of the pilgrimage, such as the Tawaf (circling the Kaaba), Sa’i (walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah), and other essential rites, the Mock Hajji program covered various aspects of the pilgrimage, including its significance, the rituals involved, and the spiritual rewards associated with performing Hajji.
Addressing the school during the program, Lion Ishola Oladimeji, the PTA Chairman of Sohaba Nursery and Primary School, expressed his profound appreciation for the school’s on the religious excursion.
According to him, “The event, aimed at educating pupils about the Hajj pilgrimage, provided the children with a memorable and enriching experience, teaching them the significance of one of the five pillars of Islam”.
“I appreciate the school because this religious excursion not only served as an educational experience but also gave the pupils hope and inspiration for their future, fostering a deeper connection with their faith,” Oladimeji remarked.
He explained the importance of such activities in building a strong foundation of religious knowledge and spirituality among young learners.
Oladimeji also extended his gratitude to the parents who supported the program, noting their vital role in making the event a success.
Despite the challenging economic conditions, an impressive 85% of parents turned up, ensuring that their children could partake in this unique learning opportunity.
“The knowledge and memories the children gained are lasting ones, and events like this will always keep their hearts closer to Allah,” he said.
Furthermore, Oladimeji encouraged parents to continue their support and increase their efforts to ensure even greater participation in future events.
He detailed the importance of comprehensive religious education, urging parents to help their children understand all five pillars of Islam, not just the Hajj pilgrimage.
Parents and guardians expressed their appreciation for the school’s initiative.
Many spoke on how such programs reinforce the teachings from home and help in building a strong religious foundation.
Mrs. Ayinde Risikat, the proprietress of Sohaba Nursery and Primary School, has extended her heartfelt appreciation to parents, guardians, and teachers for their participation in the recent educational excursion centered around the Hajj pilgrimage.
“I give kudos to you all. Thank you very much for making my children happy and for giving them a knowledgeable memory,” Mrs. Ayinde stated.
She explained the importance of community involvement in making the event a success and ensuring the children had a memorable and educational experience.
Mrs. Ayinde highlighted that the excursion was designed to enlighten the pupils on the various aspects of Hajj and to train them on its processes.
“Hajj, which is ongoing in the holy land of Saudi Arabia, is the final pillar, and it is crucial for our pupils to understand its significance and procedures,” she explained.
“We are training the pupils on the process of Hajj, which Muslims are performing now in the holy land. This includes the rituals associated with the Kaaba, Safa/Marwa, Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah, Jamarat, Salun Hilaqah, and Eid Mubarak,” Mrs. Ayinde elaborated.
Furthermore, she announced that the program will be held annually, reinforcing its importance in the school’s curriculum.
Yinusa Umaya, student Sohaba Nursery and Primary School, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity given to them.
“I feel so glad that I am in this school and not just that, but the privilege to partake in today’s activity,” she said.
Her sentiments reflect the general enthusiasm and support from her to the school’s initiative.
Faruq Bakare, one of the participating pupils, also shared his excitement and gratitude.
“I want to appreciate our headmistress and teachers for bringing this program to us and also to our parents. Thank you all for making it possible so we can be a part of this event,” he remarked.
Furthermore, Qudus Yinus, another pupil of the school emphasized the importance of the event, noting that it is essential for pupils to learn about the Hajj pilgrimage at an early age.
“The event is impactful and it is a prerequisite for the pupils to know how Hajj is performed,” he stated.
They encouraged the pupils to carry the lessons learned from the training into their daily lives and future religious practices.