Sam Kaye
In a bid to reduce the prevalence of street begging and strange vices in Borno, about 150 disciples of Islamic studies have been trained with secular skills to enable them fend for themselves during and after acquiring knowledge.
The training which covered a variety of trades, including electrical installation and repair work, solar installation and repair work, leatherwork, welding, carpentry and building construction was used to inject economic stability into the lives of the disciples usually called “almajiri” learning from a particular teacher or master.
The final package for the initiative also included cash support to enable beneficiaries to start their trades and contribute to the society’s development as expected.
It sort to enhance individual capabilities, uplift communities and provide the almajirai with sustainable pathways to economic independence.
Delivering his address in Maiduguri today, Governor Zulum emphasised that his administration would continue to foster opportunities for the almajiri learners to secure a brighter future.
“By attending this training programme, you have taken a crucial step towards securing your future; equipped with new skills, you now have the power to transform your dreams into
reality.
“As the Governor of Borno State, I assure you that our Government remains fully committed to supporting the Sangaya Islamic education.
“We will continue investing in Sangaya educational resources to ensure every learner can access quality teaching and learning essentials,” he stated.
Excessive beatings or punishments unleashed on some almajiri
Zulum, however, expressed concern about the rising cases of molestation of children in the guise of teaching Islamic education.
He said: “I would like to take this opportunity to address a critical concern: the safety and well-being of our Sangaya learners. I stand firm in the commitment that the Borno State Government will not tolerate any form of molestation or violence, such as caning against any Almajiri.
“Every one of you, regardless of your background, deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.
“Our commitment to safeguarding children extends beyond the Almajiri; it encompasses all children. We must work collectively to ensure our society embraces every child without prejudice.
” This pledge is not merely a statement; it is a call to action for every parent, educator, and community leader to safeguard the rights of our Sangaya learners.”
Zulum then presented working tools to 150 “almajirai” trained in vocational skills by his administration and assured that the government will not stop at that only.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman of Borno Sangaya Board, Kalifa Ahmad Abulfatahi, said the programme was unveiled in 2023 as part of Zulum’s resolve to address the challenges faced by almajiri children who are traditionally engaged in Islamic schooling and often lack access to formal education and opportunities.
Sheikh Kalifa noted that the training was organised in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Board to take care of their economic well being as they study under their teachers.
Also speaking, Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Lawan Wakilbe, who was represented by the Special Adviser in the ministry, Dr Bukar Tijjani, said that besides the training, the ministry had partnered with Colleges and the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies, to provide certification for almajiri learners.(www.krestnews.com).