Mehmet Fatih Madrasa celebrates graduation of 13th semester students in Montenegro

Montenegro’s Mehmed Fatih Madrasa, rebuilt by Türkiye, celebrates 13th semester graduation, marking cultural revival

Mehmed Fatih Madrasa in Montenegro celebrated the graduation of its 13th semester students. A graduation ceremony was held for 91 students from Mehmed Fatih Madrasa in Podgorica, marking a significant milestone in their educational journey.

The ceremony, held at the Budo Tomovic Information and Culture Center, was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including Montenegro Deputy Prime Minister Momo Koprivica, Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Naida Nisic, President of the Islamic Community of Montenegro Rifat Fejzic, and Turkish Ambassador to Podgorica Baris Kalkavan, among others.

Deputy Prime Minister Koprivica extended his congratulations to the graduates and conveyed his best wishes for their future endeavors. He highlighted the importance of their achievements not only for their families but also for the broader society, emphasizing the transformative power of education.

Importance of education in Islam

President Fejzic underscored the significance of knowledge in Islam, emphasizing the obligation for every Muslim to seek education. He expressed pride in the students’ accomplishments and commended their upbringing and dedication to learning.

Fejzic highlighted the dire situation of the Palestinian people, condemning the ongoing atrocities in Gaza and Palestine. He emphasized, “As we gather here, the Zionist regime is committing genocide.” Fejzic also urged condemnation of these shameful acts as a crucial step in addressing the crisis.

Madrasa Director Amer Sukirica highlighted the comprehensive education provided to the students, which encompassed various subjects including mathematics, philosophy, literature, history, and religious studies over the course of four years.

Following the speeches, diplomas were conferred upon the graduates, marking the successful completion of their educational journey at Mehmed Fatih Madrasa.

Revival of Ottoman-era education: Mehmed Fatih Madrasa’s legacy

Revitalized by Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA), in 2008, a century after the Ottoman Empire’s withdrawal from Montenegro, the Mehmed Fatih Madrasah graduated its 13th class. Originally founded in 1912, this reconstructed madrasah honors its historical legacy by once again offering educational opportunities.

This symbolizes the enduring partnership between Türkiye and Montenegro in promoting education and cultural exchange.

A century after destruction

A century after their destruction during the Balkan Wars, the reopening of madrasas in Montenegro represents a new dawn for Islamic education in the region.

After the Ottoman Empire’s presence in the Balkans, including Montenegro, the reconstruction of these educational institutions symbolizes the revival of historical and cultural heritage.

The first madrasah, rebuilt in 2008 by TIKA under the name Mehmed Fatih Madrasah, commemorates the legacy of Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror and emphasizes the enduring connection between past and present in Montenegro’s educational landscape.

After a century of being deprived of educational opportunities following the destruction of the madrassas, Montenegrin Muslims are witnessing a revival through institutions such as the madrassa.

Following the opening of the first madrasa in 2008, similar institutions are popping up across the Balkans, signaling a revival of Islamic education and cultural preservation in the region.

Source: Newsroom