The third annual Quranic recitation competition for blind and visually impaired Muslims was successfully held in Accra, aiming to acknowledge and celebrate their remarkable achievements and potential.

Despite the challenges of visual impairment, these students have demonstrated exceptional dedication and talent, memorising a significant portion of the Quran through auditory learning and braille resources.

The event not only recognizes their accomplishments but also provides a platform for them to showcase their skills, build confidence, and connect with others who share similar experiences. By promoting inclusivity and accessibility, the initiative empowers blind and visually impaired individuals to fully engage with their faith and reach their full potential.

Their family members provided invaluable support and inspiration, fostering a nurturing environment that encouraged their growth and development in Quranic studies. The combination of personal dedication and familial support enabled these reciters to excel in their craft, showcasing their impressive skills with precision and passion.

According to Alifa Sallah, CEO of the Ali Amir Foundation, the Quranic recitation competition was a momentous occasion, not just for the participants, but also for the younger generation, as it inspired and motivated them to embrace the values and traditions of the Quran, fostering a lasting impact on their lives.

Alifa hopes that the exemplary dedication of visually-impaired Quranic reciters will inspire the younger generation of Muslims to study and cherish the holy book. The competition also sought to empower blind Muslims by boosting their confidence and sense of capability, while fostering a sense of social responsibility.

The event brought together 15 blind reciters and featured a diverse audience from various walks of life, showcasing the inclusivity and unity of the Muslim community.

"Those who qualified last year across the country competed," Alifa said.

The purpose of reuniting the students at the competition is to assess their progress and growth over the past year, tracking how far they have come in their Quranic studies and recitation skills since the last event.

"Most of them were the winners of last year's competition. We want to see whether those who came last year were able to work on themselves or not," he said.

The Quranic recitation competition awarded prizes to the top performers. Umar Farouk Saeed from the Ashanti Region took first place, receiving a cash prize of GH₵1000, a citation and a certificate. Abubakar Mikaeel, also from the Ashanti Region, came second, receiving GH₵700, a citation and a certificate. Ahmed Ibrahim Ciessay from Greater Accra secured third place, receiving GH₵500, a citation and a certificate, while Mohammed Amin Saeed Gunu from the Northern Region came fourth, receiving GH₵300, a citation and a certificate.

In the Braille category, Alhassan Mohammed from the Northern Region emerged first, receiving GH₵1000 citations and a certificate. Abdul Samad Shuaib from Upper West took second place, receiving GH₵700, citation and a certificate, while Ahmed Salisu from the Ashanti Region came third, receiving GH₵500, citation and a certificate. All other participants received a cash prize of GH₵100, a certificate of participation, and a citation.

The Ali Amir Foundation and Peace Dawah Media have been advocating for the welfare and empowerment of blind Muslims in Ghana, promoting a noble cause that resonates with Islamic values.

In Islam, disability is viewed as a test of faith and perseverance, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to remain patient and steadfast. Moreover, the Quran emphasises the importance of treating people with special needs with dignity, respect, and compassion, fostering a culture of inclusivity and support.