First 'Rofaqa' Global Orphans Category Finals Commence in Qatar

The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs launched the final in-person stage of the first edition of the global orphans category, Rofaqa, in Doha on Wednesday. This significant event marks a new chapter in the ongoing Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani Holy Quran Competition. The Rofaqa category is organized in cooperation with Qatar Charity, bringing together young talents from around the world. These contestants were meticulously selected from a large pool of more than 300 participants, representing 20 countries worldwide, for this inaugural event. The launch on Wednesday showed the commitment of both organizations to fostering Quranic education and supporting vulnerable youth.

Competition Details and Judging

Contestants in the Rofaqa global orphans category are competing for the top three positions across three distinct Quranic categories. These categories are designed to test various levels of memorization and include the memorization of the entire Holy Quran, memorization of the last 20 parts, and memorization of the last 10 parts. The structure of the competition ensures that participants at different stages of their memorization journey can compete. All participants are evaluated before a single judging panel, which oversees the entirety of the competition, ensuring consistency and fairness in the assessment process. The judging panel is chaired by Sheikh Mohammed Ali Al-Hammadi, a respected figure in Quranic studies. He is joined by Sheikh Subaih Mohammed Al-Marri and Sheikh Muath Yousef Al-Qasimi, who serve as esteemed members of the panel. The tests are conducted publicly, providing a unique opportunity for attendees to observe and follow the live performances of the contestants. This public format allows for transparency and engagement from the audience, adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the event. The open sessions also enable families and supporters to witness the dedication and skill of the young participants firsthand.

Background of the Rofaqa Initiative

Rofaqa represents the inaugural global branch specifically established for male orphans sponsored by Qatar Charity. This pioneering initiative targets participants aged 12 to 20 years, providing a structured platform for their development. The program was designed to offer a unique platform for these individuals, integrating religious education with broader developmental support. Its focus on orphans shows Qatar Charity's commitment to providing care and educational opportunities to vulnerable populations worldwide. The establishment of this global category aims to foster a sense of community and healthy competition among the participating youth from various countries. Beyond the competition, Rofaqa seeks to instill values of perseverance, discipline, and religious devotion in its participants, preparing them for future leadership roles within their communities. This initiative notes the importance of full support for orphans, extending beyond basic needs to include spiritual and educational enrichment.

Event Structure and Schedule

The finals feature 30 contestants from eight countries competing in the inaugural event, showcasing a diverse representation of global talent. The competition commenced with the first group of 10 contestants, setting an inspiring tone for the days ahead. These initial participants competed in the 10-parts category, representing Bangladesh, Somalia, Mali, and The Gambia during the inauguration. Their performances demonstrated the high caliber of memorization and recitation achieved through the Rofaqa program. The tests are scheduled to continue on Thursday, with sessions planned for both the morning and evening to accommodate the remaining participants. This rigorous schedule ensures that all contestants have the opportunity to present their memorization before the judging panel. The event provides a platform not only for competition but also for cultural exchange and brotherhood among the young participants from different nations.