4th Annual All-Karachi Speech Competition on the Life of Khalifa Hazrat Umar (RA)

By: Aziz Khatri

Karachi: In a remarkable display of talent and reverence, the Kamran English Language Point (KELP) Institute successfully hosted the 4th Annual All-Karachi Speech Competition, focusing on the life and exemplary character of Khalifa Hazrat Umar (RA). The event took place at the Pakistan American Cultural Center (PACC), drawing participants and spectators with its vibrant atmosphere of enthusiasm and decorum.

Students hailing from various educational institutions across Karachi showcased their linguistic abilities, delivering speeches in a multitude of languages, including Urdu, English, Pashto, Sindhi, Seraiki, Hindko, Arabic, Persian, and Balochi. This diversity not only highlighted the cultural richness of Pakistan but also underscored the event’s commitment to promoting multilingual expression.

The event was honored by the presence of esteemed guests, including Sindh Media Forum President Moinullah Shah and Vice President Shah Nawaz Khan, who served as chief guests and presented shields to the winners.

The competition aimed to instill the noble qualities embodied by Khalifa Hazrat Umar (RA) into the younger generation, emphasizing the virtues of justice, fairness, leadership, responsibility, and God-consciousness. Participants impressed the audience with their articulate, well-researched, and impactful presentations, earning widespread appreciation.

A notable aspect of the gathering was the involvement of an interfaith delegation, which inspired the attendees and reinforced the message of religious harmony and peaceful coexistence. Key figures included Father Shahzad Arshad, Director of the National Commission for Justice and Peace; Sister Catherine Gill from St. Lawrence Convent Girls School; Kashif Anthony of St. Patrick’s School; Makhi Alam Chand of All Hindu Panchayat Thatta; Pandit Mukesh Kumar Jadeja, President, Minority Affairs; and Maghan Singh, a representative of the Sikh Community.

These distinguished guests lauded the initiative, emphasizing that such programs nurture intellectual development, promote tolerance, brotherhood, and cultivate leadership qualities among the youth. They commended the continuous efforts of the KELP Institute in fostering positive societal values. The event witnessed an impressive turnout of social, religious, and educational figures, alongside teachers, parents, and students. Many participants were celebrated for their exceptional performances, receiving trophies, medals, certificates, and shields.

Kamran Ahmed, Head of KELP Institute, expressed gratitude towards the guests for their presence and support. He reiterated the institute's commitment to character building and personal development, affirming that the annual competition will not only persist but will expand in scope and significance in the coming years.