International Friendship Day

Written by: Sharifah Husnaa, Secondary 3

Photos by: Insyirah, Secondary 3 & Sofiyyah, Secondary 2

Illustrated by: Raiqah, Secondary 2

On 24th July, the student leaders organised a small segment for International Friendship Day to show the students on the importance of friendship. A Turkish student and an Indian student from Madrasah Alsagoff were invited to share how their friends helped them fit in to the school, its environment and culture. Singa, the Courtesy Lion also came to visit during the segment. The students were tremendously excited! The students were given paper leaves to write acts of kindness shown to them which then they pasted on the “Kindness Tree”.

We asked a few students on what they think are the struggles of people who try to make friends while studying overseas. A student from Secondary 3, Amelie, replied that some people may be unable to relate to those of different cultures, backgrounds, religions and their beliefs may clash and cause disagreements. They may also face language barriers, if students are not fluent in the local language, they may find it challenging to communicate effectively. This will lead to misunderstandings and difficulty connecting with others.

Another question on what is the importance of having a good friendship with friends. Qaireen, a Secondary 3 student shared that it is very important to have a strong friendship with friends as they can be a source of comfort, understanding, and empathy, helping us navigate through life's challenges. They would also be able to provide emotional support during difficult times. Friends can be a person whom we rely on. They can offer honest advice and be there when we need someone. To achieve this, we should strive to find good friends and also be a good one!

عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، أَنَّ النَّبِيَّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ الرَّجُلُ عَلَى دِينِ خَلِيلِهِ فَلْيَنْظُرْ أَحَدُكُمْ مَنْ يُخَالِلُ ‏"

Narrated Abu Hurayrah:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: A man follows the religion of his friend; so each one should consider whom he makes his friend.