Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has highlighted the improper teaching of Islamic studies as a contributing factor to the Boko Haram insurgency in the region. This statement was made during the opening of a summit focused on reforming the Almajiri Education System, which is prevalent in northern Nigeria.
The summit aims to address and propose reforms for the Almajiri education system, focusing on integrating more comprehensive educational practices to prevent negative outcomes associated with traditional methods.
Establishment of the Arabic and Sangaya Education Board
The Borno State Government has created this board to implement a unified curriculum for Sangaya and Islamic schools.
– The reform introduces a blend of traditional Islamic education with elements of Western education, vocational training, and literacy skills, enhancing the prospects for Almajiri students.
The government plans to harmonize informal and formal educational systems to ensure that students from Sangaya schools can transition smoothly into higher educational institutions, including colleges and universities.
“The Sangaya Reform is a great development and will give Almajiri a better chance in life, particularly the introduction of integrating western education, vocational, numeracy and literacy skills into the centres, which are also described as Almajiri and Islamic schools,” Zulum said.
He added, “Distinguished guests and esteemed educationists, the government intends to streamline the informal and formal education systems to quality integrated Sangaya school for admission into colleges and universities.”
”This summit provides a platform for participants to discuss issues, share insights and propose actionable solutions to the challenges faced by the Almajiri education system.
