The Metropolitan division of Greater Manchester Police has launched an innovative scheme to raise awareness and understanding of Islam and the Muslim community.

Community Race Relations Officer Afzal Iqbal MBE, from Greater Manchester Police, has devised an Islamic Awareness course for Police Officers, PCSO's and Police Staff, with the help from local Mosques.

The Islamic Course is the first of its kind for Greater Manchester Police and includes hot topics such as Jihad, Terrorism, Islamophobia, Women in Islam and Forced Marriages and much more.

Afzal Iqbal will deliver the course with Mosque members Rabnawaz Akbar, Naeem-Ur-Rahman (Iman, Makki Masjid*) and Yasmin Darr will cover Women's Issues.

"This course is an important step forward," said Chief Superintendent David Keller of the Manchester Metropolitan Division. "There are multiple benefits for everyone involved. Police officers will gain a better understanding of Islam and the concerns of local Muslims, as well as an insight into the culture and traditions of the Muslim community ".

The course is a pilot on the Metropolitan Division and already an extra day has been planned because of the interest shown by Officers Rabnawaz Akbar, committee member at Makki Masjid, Longsight said: "We are pleased that this course has been set up as it gives us an opportunity to discuss important issues and learn from each other."

The first course will be held from 9.30am to 4.00pm on Thursday 15 May 2008, with more on Thursday 22 and 29 May 2008.