Nusrat Islamic Cultural Association (NICA) recently held its maiden Islamic conference at a ceremony held at the Nusrat Senior Secondary School hall.

The theme for this year's symposium was 'Salat and Ribah'.

Speaking at the occasion, Modou Sanneh, a student at the school, buttressed the significance of Salat being the key component for both spiritual and material elevation. "As the most important element in the Islamic faith, Salat or prayer defines the purpose of our existence as Muslims," he stated.

According to him, for one to be rewarded Paradise one must abide by the teachings of the Holy Quran but most importantly observe the five daily prayers, for it differentiates a believer from a non-believer, as well as earn them Paradise.

For her part, Salimata Jallow, also a student at the school, spoke on the consequences of Ribah. She said Ribah or unlawful wealth derived from sales and lending is prohibited by Islamic jurisprudence. As such, she said, its implications in society are that it breeds enmity and discrimination amongst the rich and poor; hence darkens the faith of the individuals engaged in such practices.

According to her, the money gained from Ribah is worthless and cannot be used for any religious purposes such as payment of Zakat and sponsoring one's parents or any person for pilgrimage.

Also speaking at the ceremony, teacher coordinator, underscored the importance of such a gathering, as it avails the students the opportunity to enlighten, share and spread the doctrines and etiquettes of the Islamic faith amongst themselves.

Other speakers included Muhammed Dukureh, Cherno Camara, Al-Hassan Colley and Malick Jallow all students of Nusrat.