The World Organization for al-Azhar Graduates has concluded its training course, “Dismantling Extremist Thought,” with 19 imams and preachers from the Republic of Pakistan participating. Held at the organization’s headquarters from Sunday, April 26, to Thursday, May 7, the program was conducted in cooperation with Al-Azhar International Academy for Training Imams and Fatwa Researchers.
The course featured the participation of senior al-Azhar scholars, including Prof. Abbas Shouman, President of al-Azhar Graduates Organization and Secretary-General of the Council of Senior Scholars; Prof. Nazir Ayyad, Mufti of the Republic; and Prof. Hassan al-Saghir, President of Al-Azhar Academy for the Training of Imams. Also in attendance were Prof. Ibrahim al-Hudhud, former President of al-Azhar University, as well as Professors Abdul Ghani al-Awari, Mohammad al-Bayoumi, and Mohammad Muhanna.
The Pakistani imams expressed their deep appreciation for al-Azhar’s role in refining their skills. They emphasized that the course, organized by al-Azhar Graduates Organization in cooperation with Al-Azhar Academy, significantly enhanced their ability to interpret religious texts through a rigorous academic methodology—one that embodies the moderation and tolerance of Islam.
Prof. Hassan al-Saghir, President of Al-Azhar International Academy, emphasized that these specialized lectures help build a robust intellectual and outreach awareness among imams. He noted that the program enhances their ability to address contemporary doctrinal and intellectual challenges using a disciplined academic approach that embodies al-Azhar’s mission of promoting moderation and balance.
Since they arrived at Cairo International Airport, the Pakistani imams have taken part in several cultural and spiritual excursions. These included visiting the Pyramids of Giza and the Library of Alexandria, as well as performing Friday prayers at the historic al-Azhar Mosque.
The program concluded with the distribution of graduation certificates to all participants.
