THE SIGNIFICANCE OF ENHANCED ALMAJIRI SYSTEM OF ISLAMIC EDUCATION TO POVERTY ALLEVIATION IN NORTHERN NIGERIA

Abstract

The Almajiri system of Islamic education has remained an important aspect of educational and religious development in Northern Nigeria. However, the deterioration of the system over time has contributed to the increasing incidence of begging, destitution, dependency and other socio-economic challenges among many Almajiri pupils. This paper examines the significance of an enhanced Almajiri system of Islamic education to poverty alleviation in Northern Nigeria. The study adopts a qualitative and historical research approach based on documentary sources, including relevant books, journal articles, government documents and other available literature on Almajiri education and poverty alleviation. The paper finds that, in the pre-colonial period, the Almajiri system was supported by the state, communities, parents, zakat and endowment institutions, while pupils also acquired productive and vocational skills such as farming, trade, tailoring, weaving and other occupations. The decline in institutional support and the increasing inability of teachers and parents to cater adequately for pupils contributed to the present condition in which many Almajirai are associated with poverty, begging and dependency. The study further finds that enhancing the Almajiri system through the integration of Islamic education with conventional education, vocational training and skills acquisition can improve the productive capacity and socio-economic opportunities of Almajiri pupils. The paper concludes that a properly enhanced and sustained Almajiri education system can contribute significantly to poverty alleviation in Northern Nigeria by equipping pupils with relevant knowledge and productive skills for selfreliance. It therefore recommends sustained government support, effective stakeholder participation and the provision of educational, welfare, vocational and skills-development opportunities for Almajiri pupils and their teachers.