Revamp the Almajiri System to End Child Suffering’ – Social Advocate
Story from Kasim Isa Muhammad
Yahuza Rabi’u Garba, is a historian and social advocate, grew up in Potiskum Local government area of Yobe state within the Almajiri family of Maidala’ilul Khairait. In an engaging conversation with Neptune Prime, he analysed the challenges of the Almajiri system, providing a critical assessment of its current state and outlining practical strategies for its reform and improvement.
NP: What are your thoughts on the current Almajiri system in Nigeria, and do you think it needs to be reformed?
The current Almajiri system in Nigeria is deeply flawed and failing in its objectives. Both society and the government share responsibility for this systemic failure. The system was originally designed to provide Islamic education to children, but it has evolved into a system that often neglects their welfare and overall development.
To reform the system, the government needs to work closely with the parents of these children and establish modern Islamic schools that mirror the Western education model. These schools should integrate Islamic teachings with other basic educational curricula, ensuring children receive a well-rounded education. For example, the government could convert some existing primary schools into hybrid institutions, hiring Islamic teachers to teach Qur’anic and Islamic studies alongside conventional subjects.
Furthermore, as many children come from rural areas where Islamic schools are scarce, the government could repurpose existing schools as centres to provide Islamic education. This approach would allow the government to gradually phase out the traditional Almajiri system while ensuring children receive proper care and education.
READ ALSO: Is Almajiri an Islamic Ideology? A call for urgent reform, by Muhammad Ahmad Yaya Misau
NP: How do you think the Almajiri system has contributed to the social and economic challenges facing Nigeria today?
The Almajiri system has significantly contributed to Nigeria’s social and economic challenges. When children grow up without proper parental care or guidance, they are more likely to engage in anti-social or criminal activities. Many Almajiri children drop out of school and become vulnerable to exploitation or involvement in illicit activities.
For instance, the Boko Haram insurgency has shown how neglect can lead to grave consequences. While the Almajiri system is not solely responsible for the rise of Boko Haram, it is clear that many Almajiri youths were recruited into the insurgency due to their vulnerability and lack of direction. This underscores the system’s role in contributing to social instability and insecurity in the country.
NP: How do you think the government and other stakeholders can work together to provide alternative education and economic opportunities for Almajiri children?
To tackle this issue, the government and other stakeholders need to collaborate effectively. The solution lies in reforming the Almajiri system into one that integrates entrepreneurship and vocational training with Islamic education. By doing this, children will acquire skills that make them self-reliant and productive members of society.
Establishing schools that focus on both education and skill development is exceedingly important. These schools should offer training in areas such as tailoring, carpentry, and other trades that can provide sustainable livelihoods. Meanwhile, providing scholarships, access to resources, and community support can empower these children and their families.
NP: What role do you think community leaders and religious scholars can play in promoting positive change within the Almajiri system?
Community leaders and religious scholars play an active role in driving reforms within the Almajiri system. These leaders are highly influential and have the power to mobilise support for change. Religious scholars, in particular, should advocate for reforms that align with Islamic teachings while addressing contemporary challenges.
They should also engage with government authorities and stakeholders to propose practical solutions for improving the system. For example, scholars from various Islamic sects, such as Qadiriyya and Tijjaniyya, should unite to address these issues and suggest reforms that benefit children. Religious leaders must prioritise the welfare of children and work to eliminate exploitative practices within the system.
NP: How do you think the current economic downturn in Nigeria is affecting the most vulnerable members of society, such as the Almajiri children?*
The current economic difficulties in Nigeria have disproportionately affected vulnerable groups, including Almajiri children. In the past, communities played a significant role in supporting these children by providing food and basic necessities. However, the economic downturn has made it harder for households to continue this support.
Families who once donated food or other resources are now struggling to meet their own needs. As a result, Almajiri children face greater hardships, with many struggling to find enough food or resources to sustain themselves. The reduction in community support has forced many into precarious situations, worsening their vulnerability.
NP: What are some potential ways to provide economic empowerment opportunities for Almajiri children and their families, and how can these initiatives be scaled up?
To empower Almajiri children and their families economically, the government should establish programmes that combine education with skill acquisition. These programmes should provide training in small-scale businesses, agriculture, and other vocational fields. Nevertheless, offering microloans and grants to their families can help establish income-generating activities.
Scaling up these initiatives requires strong partnerships between government agencies, NGOs, and private-sector organisations. Programmes should be tailored to local contexts and should involve community leaders in their design and implementation. Regular monitoring and evaluation can ensure their effectiveness and sustainability.
NP: How do you think the government and other stakeholders can work together to develop and implement effective policies and programmes to support Almajiri children and their families during this period of economic downturn?
Developing and implementing effective policies requires a multi-stakeholder approach. First, religious leaders, particularly those from the Qadiriyya and Tijjaniyya sects, must be willing to acknowledge the flaws in the current system and actively participate in reform discussions. Their endorsement of policies will lend credibility and acceptance to the changes.
Second, wealthy individuals and philanthropists should also contribute resources to support these reforms. Programmes like building modern schools, funding vocational training, and offering scholarships can significantly improve these children’s lives.
Finally, the government must ensure transparency and accountability in implementing policies. Collaboration with NGOs and international organisations can help secure funding and expertise to scale up these programmes effectively.
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