Kano Gov Sets Up 20 Member Committee to Reform Almajiri Education

(Kano Senate. Photo Credit: People Gazette)

Kano State Government has set up a 20-member committee to reform and improve the Almajiri and Tsangaya education system.

The initiative was approved by Governor Abba Yusuf and aims to create a sustainable framework for regulating and integrating the traditional Islamic education system while protecting the welfare and future of children.

The committee is chaired by Abdulkarim Maude, SAN, who is the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice. Amina Yargaya, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, serves as secretary.

Salisu Aliyu is co-secretary while Hafsat Tijjani is assistant secretary.

Other committee members include the Commissioners for Education and Information, representatives from traditional institutions, Islamic bodies, the legal profession, education sector and child-rights advocacy groups.

The diverse membership reflects the complex educational, social, cultural and welfare dimensions of the system.

The committee has been tasked with carrying out a full assessment of the current Tsangaya system and working with stakeholders to develop rules and frameworks for reform.

Members will also create a roadmap for testing the proposed changes and ensuring they are sustainable long-term.

The committee will examine ways to eliminate exploitative practices and strengthen protections for children.

It will also develop a legal framework for registering and licensing Tsangaya schools and recommend funding mechanisms for the reforms.

During the inauguration, the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ibrahim, praised the experience and calibre of the committee members, expressing confidence they would produce practical recommendations that improve education and welfare for Almajiri children.

Committee chair Maude assured that members would work diligently within the laws of Nigeria and Kano State to ensure the reform succeeds.