His Eminence the Grand Imam of al-Azhar Prof. Ahmad at-Tayyeb received at the Sheikhdom af al-Azhar, Omar Ntezimbere the Burundian Ambassador to Cairo to discuss ways to enhance the educational and religious support for the Burundian people.
The Grand Imam said that al-Azhar provides 25 scholarships annually for Muslim Burundians to study at al-Azhar, adding that al-Azhar ash-Sharif deployed 6 teachers to Burundi to instruct in Arabic language and Islamic law. Additionally, al-Azhar expresses willingness to increase scholarships and diversify fields of study including scientific faculties like medicine, engineering, and pharmacy, aligning with Burundi’s development needs.
The Burundian Ambassador to Cairo expressed his pleasure in meeting the Grand Imam of al-Azhar. He conveyed his country’s deep appreciation for al-Azhar’s significant efforts in supporting African nations. He highlighted the esteemed reputation of al-Azhar graduates in Burundi, noting that they promote a moderate and balanced approach. Furthermore, many of these graduates hold high leadership positions in various organizations and important ministries within Burundi.
Moreover, the Burundian Ambassador requested that the Grand Imam allocate the majority of Azhari scholarships for the Burundian people to the study of medicine. In response, the Grand Imam instructed that this proposal be carefully considered ensuring it meets the educational needs and goals of the Burundian people.
