Makkah: Imam of the Grand Mosque Sheikh Abdullah Al-Juhani affirmed in his Friday sermon today that knowledge is the foundation for sound worship and actions, highlighting scholars as the inheritors of the prophets and guardians of moderate Islamic teachings against distortion and extremism.

According to Saudi Press Agency, Sheikh Al-Juhani commended Saudi Arabia's steadfast support for education, science, and scholars as key pillars for building a thriving, knowledge-based society, while reminding teachers of their vital duty to combine academic instruction with virtuous moral guidance.

He further urged parents and teachers to serve as positive role models in honesty and compassion, and called on students to begin the new academic year with enthusiasm, diligence, and exemplary manners.