Tabligh Bulletin - The 4th Pre-University Course 2025

“And those who strive for Us, We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the good doers.” (Surah Al-‘Ankabut 29:69)

Alhamdulillah, the Africa Federation Tabligh Board (AFTAB) successfully hosted the fourth Pre-University Course (Pre-Uni 4) from 25th July to 3rd August 2025 at Seascape Hotel & Conference Centre, Dar es Salaam. The camp brought together 61 participants (19 brothers and 42 sisters) from Arusha, Dar-es-Salaam, Dubai, Kampala, Kinshasa (DRC), Mombasa, Muscat and Nairobi. They were supported by 19 dedicated mentors (11 females and 8 males), many of whom are also teachers and youth leaders within their communities.

The Pre-University Course is a 10-day program tailored for youth aged 16 to 19, designed to prepare them for the academic, social, and spiritual challenges of university life. It provides a holistic blend of educational classes, spiritual guidance, and recreational activities, enabling participants to develop both personally and spiritually.

This year’s program continued the strong legacy of Pre-Uni, while introducing new elements to address the evolving needs of our youth. With a focus on strengthening Islamic identity and connection to the Qur’an and Ahlulbayt, nurturing a sense of community belonging and responsibility, and developing practical life skills, the course sought to strike a balance between knowledge, spirituality, skills, and recreation. Participants were also encouraged to cultivate critical thinking, emotional intelligence, interpersonal skills, and leadership qualities through collaborative projects, discussions, and experiential activities. The program was carefully structured to ensure participants not only absorbed information but also experienced transformative learning that will guide and shape their future, Insha’Allah.

These aims were achieved through a thoughtfully designed blend of interactive lectures, group workshops, practical sessions, discussion circles, one-to-one mentoring, and reflective spiritual gatherings. This balanced approach ensured active learning while also providing space for personal reflection and growth.

Organizing Team

The course was held under the leadership of Mulla Sajjad Walji (Chairman of AFTAB), with Shaykh Ali Rajani as Head of Course, assisted by Shaykh Raheel Khimji. The team was further supported by:

● Head of Marketing: Br. Kumail Rahim

● Head of Applications: Sr. Fatema Kermalli

● Head of Logistics: Br. Shabbir Kermalli

● Head of Activities: Br. Miqdad Rehmtullah

● AFTAB Administration & Coordination: Sr. Kaniz-e-Fatema Mahershah (assisted by Sr. Fatema Khan)

Knowledge & Classes — Building Foundations for University Life

Each day began with Fajr jamaat prayers and reflection, followed by three structured classes in the morning. In total, participants attended 24 academic sessions covering topics carefully curated for the Pre-Uni stage.

Subjects included:

● Identity, Islam & Culture

● Interaction with the Opposite Gender

● Understanding Personalities

● Dealing with Doubts & Proving the Existence of God

● University Life & Fiqh Rulings

● Understanding Freedom

● Stress Management & Wellbeing

● Time Management and Living a Balanced Lifestyle.

● Building a Connection with the Qur’an and Ahlulbayt (as)

● Career Counselling & Planning

● Public Speaking & Presentation Skills

● Contemporary Issues (LGBTQ+ & Modern Challenges)

● Budgeting & Financial Basics in an Islamic Perspective

The CBG Board also played a pivotal role, with Br. Shabbirhussein Khalfan, Maryam Bai Khalfan, Zaheera Bai Raza, Sofia Bai Bharwani, Sajida Bai Jaffer, and Shama Bai Dewji conducting engaging workshops on public speaking and personality types, equipping participants with vital communication and self-presentation skills. In addition, the Education Board, through Sajida Bai Master, delivered essential career counselling sessions, helping participants align their academic pursuits with their future aspirations.

The classes were interactive and discussion-driven, designed not only to transfer knowledge but to develop critical thinking, teamwork, and reflection. Mentors were accessible during breaks and evenings, allowing participants to seek further clarification and personal guidance.

Practical Skills & Team-Building: Independence Through Experience

The Pre-Uni course emphasized hands-on learning through activities designed to build independence, teamwork, and reflection.

Washing and Stitching

In one exercise, participants were asked to intentionally dirty towels and then work in teams to wash them with limited resources. This fostered teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving, culminating in a spiritual reflection: just as stains can be cleansed with effort, so too can spiritual blemishes be removed through repentance and sincerity. While some washed, others learnt the basics of stitching by hand, with the sisters creating small pouches as practical takeaways. These activities went beyond household skills; they carried lessons of humility, responsibility, and the importance of cleansing both body and soul.

Cooking and Barbecue at Bagamoyo

During their outing to Bagamoyo Villa, participants experienced the joy and responsibility of preparing their own meals. The sisters took on a cooking challenge in teams, creating dishes such as Pilau, Pasta Salad, and Manchurian Chicken under time pressure and mentor guidance. The brothers, on the other hand, marinated and grilled their own barbecue. Both groups balanced activities and games, as batches alternated between cooking, swimming, and team games. These experiences helped build time management skills, collaboration, and appreciation for one another’s efforts.

Treasure Hunt

One of the camp highlights was the Treasure Hunt, which involved riddles, challenges, and activities like guiding a blindfolded teammate through obstacles and reading passages upside down. Each team earned a key to one of seven locks, and only by working together at the end could the treasure chest be opened, symbolizing unity, teamwork, and the collective connection to the Qur’an and Ahlulbayt. Chocolates and gifts were shared, winning teams were awarded, and participants left with the reminder that true treasure lies in faith, unity, and shared purpose.

Sports & Outings

Beyond these structured challenges, participants also enjoyed a variety of sports and outings that promoted health, bonding, and fun.

Activities included a football tournament, table tennis, and water games, with memorable outings to Water world and Bagamoyo Villa adding joy, healthy competitions, and togetherness. The sisters also spent an afternoon at Hayaat Gym, reinforcing the importance of health and balance.

Evening Programs included discussion circles on topics such as brotherhood, friendship, interaction with the opposite gender, and navigating modern-day social challenges. Late-night karak chai sessions created informal spaces for reflection and bonding.

Special Project: “What is My Role in Freeing Palestine?”

One of the most thought-provoking aspects of the camp was an exceptional project centered on Palestine. Participants were grouped into teams and challenged to design creative and practical initiatives to raise awareness and support the oppressed people in Gaza.

On the final Sunday, each team presented their ideas to a panel of judges and fellow participants. Proposals ranged from social media campaigns to fundraising initiatives and community awareness projects. The presentations highlighted not only the participants’ creativity and maturity, but also their compassion and sense of responsibility towards global issues that resonate deeply with their faith and identity.

Two winning teams (one from the brothers and one from the sisters) were awarded the grand prize, while all groups were commended for their originality and effort. Beyond the competition, the project allowed participants to put into practice skills they had gained during the camp; teamwork, planning, critical thinking, and public speaking, while channeling them towards a meaningful cause.

Mentorship and Spiritual Growth

Mentors were central to the success of Pre-Uni 4, providing guidance academically, spiritually, and personally throughout the programs. Among them, Br. Ali Khalfan, Chairman of the Africa Youth Network (AYN) Board, served as a mentor, inspiring and supporting the youth while playing a pivotal role in the overall success of the camp. Evening one-to-one sessions created a safe space for participants to openly share challenges and receive personalized advice tailored to their individual journeys.

The camp also nurtured spiritual development through daily jamaat & Jumu’ah prayers, as well as Du‘a Kumayl with commentary and reflections. Participants commemorated the Shahadat of Bibi Sakina (as) at camp and joined the mosque for the Shahadat of Imam Hasan (as), learning that university life is not only about academic success but about keeping Allah (swt) at the centre of their path.

Impact and Reflections

By the end of the camp, the participants had not only met the programme’s objectives but gone beyond them. They left with a stronger sense of Islamic identity, practical life skills for independence, and the confidence to navigate modern challenges with faith. Many also grew in teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking, while discovering new strengths in public speaking and project work. Just as importantly, they formed lasting bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood, a support system they will carry into their next stage of life.

The program once again demonstrated that Pre-Uni is not simply a summer camp, but an essential step in preparing youth for life beyond school. The objectives of the camp and more were achieved, equipping participants with stronger faith, clear direction, and vital skills to enter adulthood with confidence.

Feedback and Testimonials

Brothers

• “I would definitely tell others to join this course — it’s not just a class, it’s a journey. The Pre-Uni helped me grow spiritually, emotionally, and mentally. The environment was full of love, unity, and real connection. With teachers like Shk Suhail, it felt like being part of a family. If you want a deeper understanding of Islam and yourself, this course is the place to be.”

• “The course was amazing, completely beyond my expectations. The mentors were supportive, the schedule was balanced, and I would recommend anyone to take the opportunity to attend Pre-Uni.”

“If you want to have fun & also learn to get closer to Allah, Pre-Uni is perfect.”

Sisters

• “It was very educational and informative. It helped me understand both university life and religion better. I loved it and highly recommend it!”

• “This experience opened my mind, gave me independence, helped me gain confidence and widened my horizon. The activities, the friendships, and the bond with mentors/teachers/participants made it unforgettable.”

• “Can we have another course after this? Or maybe a training program for alumni to come back as mentors!”

• “When you come to Pre-Uni, you learn what to expect in university, strengthen your connection to Islam, and enjoy amazing activities. The mentors make you feel at home and you make lifelong friends.”

• “Pre Uni is a very educational, fun getaway, but extremely knowledgeable with the amazing mentors to the friends you make along the way, I feel ready to start university tomorrow!”

Closing Ceremony

As the camp drew to a close on Sunday, 3rd August 2025, participants expressed a mix feeling of joy at all they had achieved and reluctance to end what had been a truly enriching experience.

The Closing Ceremony was honoured by the presence of AFED Office Bearers, dignitaries from Dar es Salaam Jamaat, and other esteemed guests. Among them were Alhaj Aunali Khalfan (Past Vice Chairman of AFED), Alhaj Murtaza Kara (Assistant Hon. Secretary of AFED), Alhaj Shabbirhussein Khalfan (Chairman, CBG Board), Dr. Kazim Dhalla (Tabligh Board Chairman of KSIJ Dar es Salaam), and Dr. Mohammed Manji. Their attendance was a source of encouragement and pride for the participants.

The program featured inspiring speeches from Shaykh Raheel Khimji and Br. Shabbir Kermalli, who warmly welcomed the guests and thanked them for their support. Addresses were also delivered by Shaykh Ali Rajani, Mulla Sajjad Walji, Alhaj Murtaza Kara, and Alhaj Dr. Kazim Dhalla, each offering valuable words of guidance and advice to the youth as they embark on their journeys ahead.

Two participants; one brother and one sister spoke on behalf of their peers, sharing heartfelt reflections of their experiences at Pre-Uni 4. In addition, two mentors, Sr. Ummeabiha Mukhtar and Br. Ali Khalfan, gave speeches representing the mentor teams, highlighting the personal growth they had witnessed among the participants.

The ceremony also recognized the commitment and dedication of all who had contributed to the camp. Tokens of appreciation were presented to the Organizing Team and Mentors for their invaluable service.

A special acknowledgment was made to Br. Ali Khalfan (Chairman of AYN), who not only mentored the brothers throughout the 10 days but also supported the smooth flow of the program alongside Shaykh Ali Rajani.

Appreciation

AFTAB extends its heartfelt gratitude to the following who made Pre-Uni 4 a success.

• The Africa Federation Office Bearers for their support and guidance.

• Participants for their enthusiasm and respectful conduct and their parents who entrusted their children to us with confidence and duas.

• Mentors and Teachers for their selfless dedication in guiding the youth throughout the program.

• Organizing Team and volunteers for their tireless efforts behind the scenes, ensuring that every detail ran smoothly.

• The Capacity Building Group (CBG) Board and the Education Board for their insightful sessions, which equipped participants with practical tools and valuable guidance for their journeys ahead.

• The AYN (Africa Youth Network) for their continued support and collaboration in empowering and inspiring the youth.

• Our supporters and sponsors - Muhammed Hussein and Sabiha Rashid, Abbas Gohar, Rizwan Sajan, Dr. Mohammed Manji and his team, Ebrahim Haji Hospital, and DSM Jamaat for their generous contributions and continued support of our initiatives.

• The Seascape Hotel & Conference Centre for their warm hospitality and facilities.

Conclusion

The Pre-University Camp continues to demonstrate its vital role in shaping the next generation of leaders, professionals, and community servants. It equips our youth with not only the knowledge and skills to succeed academically, but also the spiritual grounding and values to remain firm in their faith wherever life may take them.

As the Pre-Uni 4 family parts ways, the lessons learnt, friendships formed, and memories created will continue to inspire them, a reminder that they are never alone, but part of a wider community that supports, nurtures, and believes in them.

SECRETARIAT

TABLIGH BOARD OF AFRICA FEDERATION (AFTAB)

September 28, 2025