Updated 27 July 2011
The Madinah and Bab Summer Courses 2011 are now underway and the students have arrived safely and are enjoying their time in the holy city of Qum.
Prior to the commencement of the course, training sessions were organised for the mentors to equip them with the necessary skills to help them in their roles whilst in Iran. This included understanding more about the course itself, their duties, and more importantly for them to learn more about themselves as individuals and how they impact upon others.
On the first day of the training mentors gained a better understanding on the history of the Madinah and Bab courses as well as its aims and objectives. MBTI was then done in the afternoon which allowed the mentors to learn more about their own characteristics and how to work best with each other’s strengths.
Anisa Kanji of Stanmore, London commented: "The 3 day training course that had been organised for the mentors was fantastic. I have learnt so much about myself through MBTI and as well as having the opportunity to apply this all when in Iran, I have already noticed it having a positive impact on the way I now interact with the people around me both at home and at work."
During the second and third days of the training, there was a greater focus on the ‘softer skills’ that the mentors will need whilst in Iran. This was done through training on questioning and listening skills in addition to how to give feedback.
Fatema Ramji of Hyderi said: "The typical expectation of a training programme is that it will be long, tedious, and a lot of hard work. However this training was the complete opposite to my initial expectations. The enjoyment of getting to know my fellow mentors and the excitement of the upcoming weeks made it worthwhile. I have learned so much about myself as a person and also how best to work with others in all different situations through simple techniques such as listening attentively and questioning appropriately. Not only am I honoured to be going to Iran but I am also privileged to have been given the chance to work with different people and gain skills which will not only help me while in Iran but also aid me as vital life skills in everything I do. Overall I've learned that mentoring entails being able to adapt to any situation like second nature and the training procedure has done everything necessary to equip us with the essential skills needed."
Alhamdullilah, the three day training course was received very well by the mentors and the skills the mentors have gained through this training will Inshallah help them in their roles whilst in Iran.
Shaykh Abbas Ismail noted: "Alhamdullilah, the mentors have all gained a lot from the training sessions and it was great to receive their positive feedback. We pray that they have a spiritually uplifting trip whilst in Iran and help to progress themselves and the course participants. Our community young people have an immense amount to offer back to the community and crave for such opportunities."
For further information email islamiceducation@world-federation.org
View student diaries and updates at:
http://www.world-federation.org/IslamicEducation/Articles/