Research Article

ALMAJIRI SYSTEM OF EDUCATION, THE OTHER SIDE OF THE COIN: A CALL FOR RESTRUCTURING AND INTEGRATION

Yusuf ABUBAKAR1*
1 Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
* Corresponding author: yakgez337@gmail.com
Published: Oct, 2025
Pages: 142-148
Views: 10
Downloads: 10

Abstract

The Almajiri system of education in northern Nigeria, a traditional Islamic educational framework, has longbeen a subject of debate due to its perceived negative social, economic, and educational impacts. Initiallydesigned to provide religious education, the system has evolved into a structure that often leaves its participantsvulnerable to poverty, exploitation, and marginalisation. This paper explores the Almajiri system from a criticalperspective, focusing on its administrative, economic, social, and religious roles within Nigerian society. Ratherthan advocating for the outright proscription of the system, this paper calls for its restructuring and integrationwith formal education to enhance its efficacy and provide a more balanced approach to the needs of the childreninvolved. It highlights key strategies for restructuring, including the introduction of a dual curriculum thatcombines Qur’anic and secular education, the incorporation of vocational training, the improvement ofinfrastructure, and the training of teachers. The author concluded that combining religious education withpractical, skills-based learning, the Almajiri system can contribute positively to the development of bothindividuals and society, ensuring that these children are equipped to participate fully in modern economic andsocial life. The author therefore recommended that there is a need to integrate formal and Qur'anic Education bythe government to help achieve a dual-curriculum approach, where students receive a comprehensive educationthat includes Islamic teachings alongside literacy, numeracy, and vocational skills. Also, there is a need toimprove the infrastructure of Almajiri schools by the Government and non-governmental organisations toprovide better living and learning conditions, such as adequate shelters, learning materials, and trained teacherswho are capable of teaching both religious and secular subjects.

Keywords

Almajiri Education Restructuring Integration Formal Education Nigeria Qur'anic Education Vocational Training Socio-Economic Development.

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How to Cite

ABUBAKAR, Y. (2025). ALMAJIRI SYSTEM OF EDUCATION, THE OTHER SIDE OF THE COIN: A CALL FOR RESTRUCTURING AND INTEGRATION. Journal of Educational Research and Development, 20(1), 142-148.

Y. ABUBAKAR, "ALMAJIRI SYSTEM OF EDUCATION, THE OTHER SIDE OF THE COIN: A CALL FOR RESTRUCTURING AND INTEGRATION," Journal of Educational Research and Development, vol. 20, no. 1, pp. 142-148, October 2025.

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