Renovation of a new madrassa for revertees

The madrassa, nestled within the bustling highrise estate of Nairobi, stands as a poignant reminder of its storied past, yet it is a place that has undeniably seen better days. As one approaches the madrassa, the signs of its deteriorating condition become increasingly evident, painting a picture of neglect and the passage of time. What becomes immediately observable is the sight of a roughly constructed mabati shelter, composed of weathered, old, and worn-out blue iron sheets that have bravely withstood the test of time. Each sheet is a testament to its own history, bearing the marks of rust spots and dents that reflect not only the harsh elements it has endured but also the enduring presence of the institution it guards, a sanctuary of knowledge amidst the urban chaos.

Within the confines of the madrassa, the absence of windows not only resulted in a lack of natural light but also severely restricted the flow of fresh air, leading to a stifling atmosphere that hindered the learning process. The ground beneath was covered in a layer of compacted earth, a stark reminder of the basic conditions in which the students learned. Yet, despite these considerable difficulties, the spirit of learning remained unbroken, permeating the space with an indomitable energy. The echoing sounds of students reciting verses of the holy Qur'an reverberated off the walls, creating an atmosphere rich with intellectual curiosity and camaraderie. This collective pursuit of knowledge was a beacon of hope, demonstrating that even in the most challenging environments, the thirst for education could not be extinguished.

The madrassa exemplified the resilience and determination of both students and teachers who persisted in their educational pursuits despite the constraints imposed by the physical environment. Perhaps, in its simplicity and humble appearance, the madrassa found its true strength, serving as a crucial gathering place for the community and a foundation for the future of its young minds.

When our team visited the madrassa, we were deeply moved by the challenges faced by the students and their dedicated teacher, who worked tirelessly under difficult conditions. This situation inspired us to initiate a positive transformation. We made the conscious decision to seek donations from supporters who shared our vision to improve the learning environment. The inadequate state of the madrassa underscored the crucial need for educational assistance, prompting us to reach out to individuals willing to contribute their resources and support.

As we embarked on our fundraising campaign, we were met with an overwhelming outpouring of generosity from individuals and organizations who resonated with our mission. Their support not only bolstered our confidence but also reaffirmed our belief in the collective goodwill that exists within society. With each donation received, we moved one step closer to realizing our dream of establishing a better environment for the students and teacher at the madrassa. The community’s involvement became a vital part of the journey, illustrating how collaborative efforts can lead to meaningful change.

On 10th. June 2024, we officially commenced the building project, embarking on a comprehensive renovation that aimed to upgrade the madrassa from the exterior to the interior. Our renovation project was ambitious; we meticulously fitted new walls to ensure structural integrity while expanding the madrassa to twice its original size, thereby providing more room for students to learn and grow. Recognizing the importance of a conducive learning environment, we raised the ceiling to a generous height of 9 feet, creating a sense of openness and airiness that was previously lacking within the madrassa.

Prior to our intervention, the madrassa had been devoid of natural light and proper ventilation, which severely hindered the overall learning experience. To address these critical issues, we strategically installed three new windows, allowing ample sunlight and fresh air to permeate the classroom, significantly enhancing the overall ambiance. Additionally, we cemented the floor to ensure durability and hygiene, complementing it with new carpets and desks designed to elevate both the comfort and functionality of the space for the students.

Attention to detail was paramount throughout the renovation process. We meticulously fitted lights to illuminate the classroom effectively, ensuring that the learning environment was bright and welcoming. The final touch involved applying a fresh coat of vibrant paint that breathed new life into the madrassa, creating an inviting atmosphere for both teachers and students alike. After two weeks of dedicated hard work and meticulous planning, we successfully completed the renovation, culminating in a revitalized madrassa that stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to quality education and community development.

On 10th. June. 2024, on a beautiful morning filled with anticipation and excitement, the madrassa was officially opened in a grand ceremony that brought together members of the community, religious leaders, and enthusiastic supporters. The event was graced by the presence of the esteemed Sheikh Maulana Said AbdulMajid, whose wisdom and guidance added a profound sense of significance to the occasion, reminding all present of the importance of education in shaping the future.

As a gesture of appreciation for the dedication and hard work of the madrassa teacher, a heartfelt decision was made to reward him with a brand new motorcycle. This thoughtful gift was intended to serve a dual purpose for the madrassa teacher. Beyond being a mere mode of transportation, it symbolized a gateway to financial stability and empowerment. In a society where opportunities for additional income are often limited, the motorcycle represented a significant investment that could potentially transform the teacher's financial situation, enabling him to support his family and contribute further to the community.

The success of the madrassa project was made possible through the generous contributions and donations of individuals who selflessly gave to support this noble cause. Their acts of kindness and charity have played a vital role in ensuring the sustainability and prosperity of the madrassa, and it is our sincere hope that Allah accepts the efforts of everyone involved, as we continue to nurture the seeds of knowledge and hope planted within these walls.