El Yaqin Foundation Committed to Providing Free Education for Underprivileged Children

The El Yaqin Foundation, which oversees the Bina Cendekia Islamic Kindergarten and Primary School in Kedaung, Pamulang District, South Tangerang City, has reaffirmed its commitment to providing a free school programme for the underprivileged. The move is taken as a form of the foundation’s concern to guarantee quality education for the poor. “This free school for children who are unable or economically weak is a small charity that I intend as alms. Let us never stop helping them so they can learn and lead them to become knowledgeable children,” explained El Yaqin Foundation Chairman Nurul Yaqin during a farewell speech for the final-year kindergarten and primary school students at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Training Centre Building in Ciputat, South Tangerang, last week. According to Nurul Yaqin, the foundation plans to increase the quota of students participating in the free school programme in the future. Currently, around 40 children at kindergarten and primary school level have joined the programme. “In the future, we hope to prepare a special class for underprivileged children,” he stated. He also expressed hope that Bina Cendekia school graduates, with parental support, would continue to maintain their knowledge and love of the Qur’an. Nurul emphasised the importance of instilling religious values through deeds and real examples in daily life. On the same occasion, Nurul Yaqin conveyed his appreciation to the teachers and parents for their good cooperation in improving the quality of education at Bina Cendekia school. He also apologised if there were still shortcomings in the service. “Hopefully we can continue to improve the quantity and quality of Bina Cendekia school together,” he concluded. The farewell and graduation ceremony was solemn yet lively. An emotional atmosphere enveloped the room as the students performed a sungkeman procession to their parents as a sign of gratitude for their graduation. The series of events also featured a group recitation of Qur’anic verses by kindergarten and primary school students, as well as a song dedication for the teachers. In addition, the students presented a musical drama and dance themed “Stop Bullying” along with a campaign for healthy and clean living free from litter.