BY Stephen Kenechi
The National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children’s Education (NCAOOSCE) has restated its commitment to guaranteeing education for unschooled kids in Nigeria.
The commission also joined the global community to celebrate Children’s Day.
The 2024 International Children’s Day was themed: ‘For Every Child, Every Right’.
Muhammad Sani Idris, executive secretary/CEO of NCAOOSCE, said the theme of the celebration resonates with the commission’s mandate to ensure that all Almajiri and out-of-school children have access to quality education and a chance to thrive.
He said NCAOOSCE is working to provide quality education for out-of-school children, collaborate with stakeholders to address the root causes, and support states and local governments in implementing effective education policies.
“Every child deserves the right to education, healthcare, protection, and a safe and nurturing environment to grow and develop in line with the renewed hope agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration,” Idris said.
“As the executive secretary of NCAOOSCE, I reaffirm our commitment to addressing these issues and ensuring that every child, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
Idris added that NCAOOSCE is looking to integrate western education into the curriculum of Almajiri schools, equip out-of-school children with vocational skills to be self-reliant, and collaborate with agencies to protect the fundamental rights of Almajiri children.
“I call on stakeholders to join us in our mission to ensure that every child has access to quality education and a brighter future,” he said.
“Together, we can make a difference and ensure every child enjoys their rights and reaches their full potential. The time to act is now.”
UNICEF data shows that about 10.5 million Nigerian children are not in school, although primary education is officially free and compulsory.
Only 61 percent aged between 6 to 11 regularly attend primary school and 35.6 percent aged 36 to 59 months receive early childhood education.
The Almajiri refers to a system of Islamic education practised in northern Nigeria.
The male gender seeking Islamic knowledge is called Almajiri, the female gender is Almajira, and the plural is Almajirai.
The system encourages guardians to cede parental responsibilities to the Islamic school.
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