Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — The boys team from International Indian School, Jeddah (IISJ) secured the first position and bagged the rolling trophy of the first Sir Syed Memorial Inter school Speech Contest held Wednesday at the premises of IISJ boys’ section.



The contest was organized by the Aligarh Muslim University Alumni committee for students of grades nine - 12 of various schools.



The topic of the contest was “Sir Syed’s Life and Achievements,” and the speeches delivered by students were very informative and provided an insight into the multifaceted personality of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan’s and his achievements and contributions. Twenty-six participating students were divided into eight teams: IISJ (boys’ section), IISJ (girls’ section), Al Falah International DPS School, Al Wurood International School, Al Noor School, Al Ahdab School, Duhat Ul Uloom School,  and AMU Alumni team.



The winners of the contest were Iman Aqeel Khan, AMU Alumni Team; Mohammed Ajder, Al Wurood International School; Usaid Saud, IISJ-boys’ section; Heba Refat, AMU Alumni Team from grades nine to 12 respectively.



The second position was together secured by Rizin Ahmed, IISJ- boys’ section; Owaise Ali Khan, Al Noor International School; Karan Dilsher, Al Wurood International School; and Sayeda Tahera, IISJ-girls’ section.



The third position was bagged by Affan Mohammed, Al Wurood International School; R. Saravanan, IISJ-boys’ section; Aleefah Ahmed, IISJ-girls’ section; Areeb  Ahmed Kashif - IISJ-boys’ section.



The program began with customary recital of a few verses from the Qur’an by senior Alig SM Abdullah.



Aqeel Jamil, secretary of AMU Alumni Committee, said that the “Speech Contest” was a tribute to the founder of their Alma mater and Sir Syed Ahmed Khan.



The event was aimed to familiarize and inspire young students by learning about the life of the great educationist and reformer Sir Syed.



Syed Farzan Ahmed Rizvi, president of the committee, highlighted the contributions of Sir Syed, and emphasized the importance of public speaking and leadership skills for all, especially the younger generation.



The program took place in the presence of Mohammed Raghib Qureshi, Head of Chancery, and Dr. Irshad Ahmed, consul, from the Indian Consulate; Syed Masood Ahmed, principal IISJ; Dr. Najeeb Qais, vice-principal IISJ- boys’ section; and Farah Masood, vice-principal IISJ- girls’ section. The attendees, including AMU Alumni committee members, comprised parents and students who applauded and encouraged the participants for their gallant efforts.



Qureshi also appreciated the efforts made by the students and the organizing committee. He said that such events should be held more often.



The program was hosted by Jamil, and Azizur Rab proposed vote of thanks.