Speech by the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund, at a Graduation Ceremony in Khost Province

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

Respected leadership of Khost Province, esteemed scholars, honorable elders, mujahideen, graduates of Islamic studies and Qur’an memorization programs, and all distinguished attendees:

Peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon you all!

It is a source of great joy and pride for me to participate today in this sacred and enlightened gathering for the turban-tying ceremony of scholars and Qur’an memorizers here in Khost Province.

First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the graduates, both scholars and Qur’an memorizers, and their families on the completion of this sacred journey. I pray that they become true servants of Islam and the nation.

Respected attendees,

Islamic history has demonstrated that madrasas  are the luminous and sacred institutions of Muslim societies. They have preserved religious knowledge, strengthened the ethos of jihad, instilled Prophetic ethics, maintained religious awareness and identity, and served as the centers of spiritual and intellectual training. The contributions of these institutions are deeply rooted in Islamic spirituality and values. These institutions produce individuals whom the Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) described as his heirs and exemplars of ethical and Prophetic conduct for the community.

On the other hand, you are all witnesses to the undeniable reality that the Islamic tradition of jihad and the fulfillment of its sacred obligation in Afghanistan emerged authentically from the madrasas. This tradition sprouted from these madrasas, spread to villages and cities, and transformed into a sustained and sacred struggle that inflicted a humiliating defeat on foreign armies— a defeat they themselves acknowledge.

This demonstrates that madrasas not only nurture religious scholars and Qur’an memorizers but also play a pivotal role in the intellectual reformation of society, combating un-Islamic cultural influences, and upholding Islamic traditions. Therefore, it is of utmost importance for madrasas to remain steadfast and unwavering in their true mission, regardless of the circumstances. Any deviation, even slight, from this path risks undermining the essential religious responsibilities and duties they fulfill, potentially leading generations and nations astray.

Graduates of Islamic studies and Qur’an memorization programs,
Once again, I extend my congratulations to you and your families for earning this distinguished and enduring honor of turban-tying. I pray that these turbans become symbols of the greatness and glory of religion and the nation.

I urge you to act upon the knowledge you have acquired, teach it to others, and continue your studies in your respective fields. Never allow your acquired knowledge to fade away. Maintain your religious discipline at all times, interact with people within the framework of Prophetic ethics, and never seek material rewards or privileges in exchange for this sacred work.

You are well aware that we are living in an era of technology. Strive to familiarize yourselves with contemporary education and needs so that you may serve religion and the people more effectively. Convey religious awareness and understanding to the community in a manner that is modern and easily comprehensible.

Islamic madrasas and pulpits hold immense influence in offering guidance and counsel to the people. From this platform, I also call upon all scholars in the country to make their sermons and speeches more gentle and appealing. Alongside religious obligations, instill in the people a sense of preserving the Islamic system and protecting national interests. This system has been achieved through immense sacrifices, and everyone must fulfill their role in its maintenance and continuity.

Honored attendees,

For your reassurance and optimism, I would like to share that significant national projects and efforts are currently underway for economic development across the country. Our trade relations with neighboring countries have strengthened, and we have reduced reliance on specific politically influenced routes. Local products are finding suitable markets, and substantial work is being carried out on strategic national plans for better management of the Emirate’s resources. InshaAllah, with your support and prayers, notable economic progress will be achieved in the future, creating job opportunities and improving the economic conditions of families.

In conclusion, I express my profound gratitude to the esteemed management and teachers of this madrasa for fulfilling their great religious duty with sincerity and excellence. May Allah grant you success in all your endeavors.

Peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon you all.