Speech by Chief Executive of MUIS, Mr Kadir Maideen at Asatizah NIE graduation ceremony

Distinguished guests,  

esteemed partners from NIE International,  

respected educators,  

graduates, and colleagues, 

Assalamu’alaikum wr. wb. 

It is my great honour to be here today to celebrate a significant milestone in our journey towards strengthening the quality of the full-time and part-time madrasahs.  

Today, we recognise the achievements of our graduates — dedicated teachers who have committed themselves to professional growth to ensure that our madrasahs remain relevant in Singapore’s education landscape.  

This occasion also marks our successful partnership with NIE International (NIEI), which has helped to elevate the teaching capabilities of madrasah teachers. Through the Specialist Diploma in Teaching and Learning as well as the Certificate in Teaching and Learning for Community Educators, we have taken a decisive step in equipping our teachers with contemporary teaching approaches and effective classroom practices.  

To the 26 full-time madrasah teachers who have completed the Specialist Diploma in Teaching and Learning, I commend your dedication. Balancing your teaching duties while completing rigorous training is truly remarkable. Your skills and perspectives have grown through three key experiences - the six core modules, visits to national schools and teaching practicum. This progress shows our madrasahs' dedication to improve teaching standards.  

I also want to congratulate the 18 ILHAM teachers who have earned their Certificate in Teaching and Learning for Community Educators. This is a significant milestone. As the pioneer cohort, you have paved the way for future part-time madrasah teachers to grow and excel in their classrooms. Through your dedication, our part-time Islamic education will continue to inspire and create lasting impact for our students. 

Both programmes help to develop well-rounded teachers by covering essential skills outlined in the Career and Competency Framework, as recommended by the Committee on Future Asatizah (COFA). These include lesson planning and delivery on top of student assessment, equipping teachers with the necessary skills to teach effectively.  

At MUIS, we firmly believe that empowering teachers translates into better learning experiences for our students.  

For our full-time madrasah students, this initiative equips teachers with the skills and strategies to help students thrive in both religious and academic subjects. By strengthening pedagogical approaches, we ensure that students receive a balanced education that deepens their Islamic knowledge while supporting their academic excellence. Therefore, preparing them for a future where they can contribute meaningfully to society.  

For our part-time madrasah students, this initiative helps teachers make the most out of limited class time to achieve meaningful outcomes. Well-trained educators can deliver lessons that are engaging, practical, and relevant, helping students develop a strong Islamic identity. This nurtures their confidence to practice their faith and apply Islamic values in their daily lives, empowering them to be principled, ethical individuals in our diverse society. 

This initiative is part of our broader commitment to uplift the teaching profession and fostering a culture of continuous learning. By working together with esteemed partners such as NIEI, we align ourselves with Singapore’s national efforts to enhance professional development in the education sector. 

I would like to take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt appreciation to NIEI for their invaluable support in designing and delivering these programmes. Their guidance has been instrumental in equipping our teachers with the skills to excel in the classroom and beyond. 

Graduates, as you continue your teaching journey, I encourage you to apply what you have learned and share your insights with your colleagues. The impact of your journey does not end here—it continues through the students you inspire and the future you help to shape.  

On behalf of MUIS, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all our graduates. May you continue to teach with excellence, lead with wisdom, and nurture the next generation of asatizah and leaders with passion and dedication.  

Wa billahi taufiq wal hidayah 

Wassalamu’alaikum wr. wb.