The Continuing Education Unit at the College of Education for the Humanities, University of Kerbala, organised a training course titled “The Dimensions of Volunteering in the Holy Quran, Sunnah, and Narrations of Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them) and its Effects on Sustainable Development.” Assist. Prof. Dr. Mohammed Mahdi Ali Al-Shubari, Lect. Dr. Haider Abdul Hussein Abdul Sada Al-Hussainawi and Lect. Dr. Ahmed Mahlahel Mukhlif Al-Asadi led the course.
The course aimed to highlight the significance of voluntary work as one of the essential human values strongly encouraged by Islam. It covered the following key Modules:
The first module defined the concept of volunteering both linguistically and terminologically, emphasizing an operational definition that revolves around willingly donating one’s money, time, or efforts. In this module, lecturers discussed how Quranic verses encourage cooperation, kindness, lending, spending, and assisting others solely for the sake of Allah. Additionally, examples of voluntary acts were given including the building of the dam by Dhul-Qarnayn to stop the corruption of Gog and Magog (Majuj tribes), and Prophet Musa’s (peace be upon him) act of helping Prophet Shu’aib’s (PBUH) daughters in getting water, demonstrating the values of trust and hard work essential for good work. The Islamic guidelines for volunteering were also mentioned, stressing the importance of pure intentions that are made solely for the sake of Allah, while preserving other’s dignity and pride.
The second module focused on prophetic sayings and narrations by Ahl al-Bayt Imams. These narrations encourage voluntary work and offering services. It emphasised the role of such actions in strengthening social bonds and enhancing ethical standards.
Finally, the third module explored the effects of voluntary work on sustainable development, such as enhancing education and building a qualified workforce that supports and sustains development, promoting environmental sustainability, improving health and the economy, reinforcing security and social peace, and spreading societal awareness and values of citizenship.
