The Kwara State Government has praised Daru'l Erkam Foundation, a Turkish Islamic organisation, for its contributions to enhancing the teaching and learning of Islamic Studies in public schools across all 16 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state.

Dr Lawal Olohungbebe, Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, made the commendation during the official launch of the Daru'l Erkam Foundation reading competition in Ilorin, the state capital, on Wednesday.

In a statement by the Ministry's Press Secretary, Peter Amogbonjaye, the commissioner acknowledged the foundation's efforts in aligning the younger generation with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad. He also urged students and participants to foster peaceful coexistence with their neighbours.

He pledged the government's support for the foundation.

"We are living in a plural society which comprises people of different religions and faiths, so we should cultivate the habit of living in peace with our neighbours and develop our society," the commissioner said.

Earlier, the Coordinator of Daru'l Erkam Foundation in South West and Kwara State, Saheed Aremu, said the competition aimed to promote learning of the lifestyle of Prophet Mohammed.

Aremu commended the Foundation's Board of Trustee, led by Mr Dogan Gokemen and the Chairman, Daru'l Erkam Foundation in Nigeria, Mr Metin Celebi, for supporting the initiative.

The event was attended by eminent Islamic scholars; directors from the Kwara State Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development; President, All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools, Mohamed Salihu; among others.