Mali: Graduation Ceremony for 100 Imams Trained at Mohammed VI Institute in Rabat
A ceremony was held lately in Bamako in honor of 100 Imams who graduated from the Rabat-based Mohammed VI Institute for the Training of Imams, Morchidine, and Morchidates. Out of 300 graduates from the Mohammed VI Institute, the 100 imams received their diplomas following a two-year training program that covered counter-terrorism and violent extremism. Simultaneously, they received practical education in various trades including mechanics, refrigeration, and carpentry.
Prime Minister Brigadier General Abdoulaye Maïga who presided over the ceremony said the Institute’s training program aligns with the nation’s development goals. “The completion of this training marks the beginning of a new mission, and we count on the entire Muslim community to achieve the objectives set by Mali’s highest authorities,” the Prime Minister said.
General Maïga expressed his appreciation for “Morocco’s support and solidarity towards Mali.” “This experience calls for more collaboration,” he said, noting that King Mohammed VI’s efforts, as Commander of the Faithful, to promote Islam are well-known and supported by concrete actions.” He believes that the partnership between Morocco and Mali demonstrates both countries’ shared vision of strengthening universal values of peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and mutual respect.
Addressing the graduating imams, Brigadier General Abdoulaye Maïga stated that they “have reached a decisive milestone in their spiritual journey through training at the King Mohammed VI Institute in Rabat, dedicated to promoting peaceful, tolerant, and moderate Islam.” During the ceremony, the head of government reminded the imams that their greatest challenge lies in applying the knowledge and skills acquired during their training.
He urged them to serve as role models and reference points for the entire Muslim community, emphasizing that while expectations are high, they match the imams’ capabilities. He encouraged them to proudly fulfill their noble mission by teaching an Islam of peace, unity, and tolerance, free from extremism.
Multidisciplinary Training for Imams’ Societal Role
Beyond religious education promoting moderate and tolerant Islam that breaks from extremist ideologies, the training at the Mohammed VI Institute for the Training of Imams, Morchidines, and Morchidates included practical instruction in various trades and societal skills.
The goal was to equip them with technical competencies to better integrate into their communities’ socio-economic fabric upon returning to Mali. Their role extends beyond spiritual guidance to include active community engagement.
Being able to provide practical advice across various trades will enable these imams to position themselves as essential actors in local development and community cohesion. Their multidisciplinary training strengthens their legitimacy and ability to provide concrete solutions to their congregations’ concerns.
