Doha: The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs launched on Wednesday the final in-person stage of the first edition of the global orphans category, Rofaqa, as part of the Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani Holy Quran Competition, organized in cooperation with Qatar Charity.
According to Qatar News Agency, the ministry noted that the finals feature 30 contestants from eight countries, selected from more than 300 participants representing 20 countries worldwide. The contestants are competing for the top three positions in three Quranic categories: memorization of the entire Holy Quran, the last 20 parts, and the last 10 parts. This initiative combines Quranic and humanitarian outreach.
All contestants are being tested before a single judging panel, chaired by Sheikh Mohammed Ali Al-Hammadi, with Sheikh Subaih Mohammed Al-Marri and Sheikh Muath Yousef Al-Qasimi as members. This ensures the standardization of evaluation and judging criteria to guarantee fairness and equality.
The tests are held publicly, allowing attendees to follow the contestants' live performances. The inauguration featured 10 contestants competing in the 10-parts category, representing Bangladesh, Somalia, Mali, and The Gambia.
Rofaqa is the first global branch dedicated to male orphans sponsored by Qatar Charity, aged 12 to 20, encouraging them to memorize and connect with the Holy Quran, and nurturing Quranic talents in an educational environment that combines fair competition with intellectual and humanitarian support. It also embodies a strategic partnership between the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, represented by the Sheikh Jassim Holy Quran Competition, and Qatar Charity, contributing to the educational and spiritual empowerment of orphans and strengthening their connection to the Holy Quran through memorization, recitation, and contemplation.
The tests are scheduled to continue on Thursday in morning and evening sessions, leading up to the final closing ceremony where winners will be crowned.