The Federal Government has expressed commitment to enrich the educational experience of Almajiri pupils by incorporating Arabic studies into their curriculum.
National Commission for Almajiri and out-of-school children’s education (NCAOOSCE) said this would be done in collaboration with the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS) as well as the Nigeria Arabic Language Village (NALV).
Executive Secretary of the commission, Dr Muhammad Idris, who disclosed this at an inter-agency collaborative meeting, said with the partnership, the organisations would ensure that Almajiri students receive comprehensive education that includes a deep understanding of the Arabic language and Islamic teachings.
“The lack of understanding of the Arabic language among memorisers of the Qur’an can lead to manipulation by selfish individuals. When people rely solely on memorisation without comprehension, they become vulnerable to misinterpretations and distorted explanations of the Quranic verses, prompting them to take up arms against the state,” he stated,
He also said in addition to partnering NBAIS, and NALV in the area of Arabic studies, the commission is also working closely with other relevant agencies to further enhance almajiri education.
“One of the key area is to introduce English language education to almajiri students, ensuring that they have the necessary skills to thrive in a modern, globalised world.”
The commission’s secretary said by collaborating with various agencies, itwill providethe students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in all aspects of life.
According to him, products of almajiri schools can be enrolled in institutions like the Islamic University of Madina, and Islamic University of Niger, that would qualify them to work in the judiciary, foreign missions and teaching profession.
Idris added that the commission would provide an accelerated learning programme for out-of-school children in the south, who are into apprenticeship, for them to study up to tertiary level.
Both the Registrar of NBAIS, Prof. Yahuza Imam and the CEO of NALV, Prof. Ibrahim Muhammad, pledged their support for the fight against out-of-school children in Nigeria.
