Kozhikode, India — Markazu Saqafathi Sunniyya (Sunni Cultural Centre), led by Sheikh Aboobacker Ahmed, has decided to adopt 100 villages in the country as part of the 41st foundation anniversary of the institution.

Markaz has decided to implement four different programs in these villages which are educational empowerment projects, socio-economic services, community welfare schemes and agricultural initiatives. Another project launched in the function is the distribution of one million notebooks for school students.

Dr. Wael Albattrekhi, deputy head of Palestine embassy in India, inaugurated the program which was held at Markaz headquarters here. He stated that Markaz’s activities have been incredible as the institution carefully engages with the marginalized communities in India. A country becomes highly developed when farsighted leaders lead from the front. Sheikh Aboobacker is such a talented scholar who for decades has been serving to develop the underprivileged communities irrespective of their religion or ethnicity, he added.

As part of the distribution of the orphan fund, a portion of Rs1.5 crore’s check was presented to orphans in the function. Sheikh Ahmed handed over the check. In his address, he said that Markaz has spread its activities to 22 states in a bid to improve the living conditions of poor people. Now, Markaz has extended its activities by adopting 100 villages as part of the mission’s focus on educational and humanitarian activities. Thousands of people who work in India and abroad, especially the GCC countries, invaluably support Markaz’s activities. Their financial and organizational supports enable us to undertake such big projects for the upliftment of the community and nation. Educated young people in the community can lead a large number of people towards straight path, giving them bright futures, he added.

Sayyid Zainul Abideen Bafakhi Thangal launched ‘One Million Notebooks’ project and Chennai district judge Zakkir Hussain inaugurated the smart village project during the occasion. C. Muhammed Faizy, the general manager of Markaz, delivered the keynote address.

Besides providing food and shelter to the residents, Markaz will impart education and training in the 100 villages with the intention of changing the status of villages. Markaz also will supply one million notebooks and other educational equipment to underprivileged students. As part of Markaz Orphan Care Project, 5000 orphans are being given financial aid. — SG