The purpose of the field trip was to visit the popular exhibition on “Sultans of Science: 1000 Years of Knowledge Rediscovered” and see the IMAX film on “Journey to Mecca: In the Footsteps of Ibn Battuta”. The exhibition brought awareness of Islam’s contribution to the fields of science and technology in the eighth to the 18^th centuries and its lasting impacts on modern day science and technology.

Did you know that the first piloted flying device soared well before the designs of Leonardo da Vinci in the 15th century? This was among the many Islamic inventions and the international touring exhibition takes you back in time showcasing original verses and scriptures of the Holy Quran to interesting architecture to innovative water purification system. The exhibition provided interactive, hands-on, fun, and challenging opportunities for the youth, children, parents and elders who were in attendance to appreciate and understand the discovery.

The exhibition was an enlightening experience but the IMAX film was even more fascinating part of the field trip. The sold out show had all ages in attendance and truly created a journey for the audience. The sound system, images and characters made the audience feel part of the journey and experience life in the days without high tech gadgets. More then the images, it was the powerful message of Islam that challenged a young men to follow his dreams, be faithful and seek Allah’s refuge at all times that ultimately inspired and touched many souls. The film was a perfect and connecting touch to the exhibition and is strongly recommended for people to watch particularly in an IMAX theatre.

Many youth walked away from this trip feeling good and awed by the experience. It is not too often that Muslims or the religion of Islam receives positive messaging especially in the west. The exhibition certainly raised awareness of Islam’s impact in science and technology but also challenged many stereotypes and misconceived views about the Muslim world. The exhibition was a full house of all types regardless of religion, race, ethnicity and age. The message was strong and vibrant thus creating an atmosphere of unity at least in the scientific world.

The successful field trip could have not been achieved without the support of the community and youth members. Youth Section is working on other recreational programs like the field trip to the Ontario Science Centre and the Bowling Trip to engage youth in positive and safe activities while providing them with Islamic knowledge.  If you are interested in learning more about Youth Section or would to participate in future programs and activities, please email us at YSECTION@ROGERS.COM

The next big event that Youth Section is organizing is the three day program with Br. Hassanian Rajabali at the Islamic Community of Afghans in Canada (Jami Islami) on April 24-26, 2009. To get more information on this program, please email Youth Section at YSECTION@ROGERS.COM.