Jigawa, UNICEF engage stakeholders on FLN integration in Tsangaya school
The Jigawa State Tsangaya Education Board, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has engaged stakeholders to fast-track integration of Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) into Tsangaya school system.
Dr Abdulkadir Maje, Executive Secretary of the board, said this at the inauguration of a one-day sensitisation for Qur’anic teachers (Alarammas), on Saturday in Dutse.
He said the exercise aimed at sensistising the teachers on the need to support the integration to reform, strengthen and modernise the Almajiri system of education.
Maje noted that the Tsangaya institution has, for centuries, played a vital role in preserving Islamic knowledge, moral values and cultural heritage.
“Almajirci is one of the oldest Islamic educational traditions in West Africa, providing Qur’anic education and moral upbringing, which evolved over centuries.
“So, we have an opportunity to build on this strong foundation by integrating Foundational Literacy and Numeracy into our centres.
“This initiative is not intended to replace Qur’anic education, but designed to complement it by equipping Almajiri children with essential literacy, numeracy and life skills needed to succeed in today’s world while remaining firmly rooted in Islamic values,” he said.
Maje said that the engagement provided a platform to exchange ideas, address concerns and develop a shared understanding of the FLN integration process of the Tsangaya school.
He commended UNICEF and development partners for their support towards improving educational opportunities for every child in the state.
Ms Aisha Abdulla, an Education Consultant, UNICEF, said that the exercise would enhance the participants’ understanding of the FLN integration approach, implementation process and their roles in supporting its success.
She said that it would also promote safe, inclusive and supportive learning environments for Almajiri children through strengthened collaboration between the board, Qur’anic teachers, UNICEF and other stakeholders.
Also, Dr Awwalu Halilu presented a paper titled: “Integration: An Alternative Approach to Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) Skills for Almajiri and “Safe Space, Security and Safety for Almajiri Children at Tsangaya in Jigawa State”.
He examined the concept of integration, inclusive knowledge, practical education, seeking knowledge as an obligation, safe space, protection risks, security, safety and concerns, health and wellbeing, roles of teachers, parents, communities, government and partners, as encouraged by Islam.
Halilu, therefore, recommended adequate training of teachers, strengthening and safeguarding the system, and provision of improved WASH facilities at Tsangaya school, as well as increased funding of the system.
The exercise was attended by Qur’anic teachers and other stakeholders drawn from the 27 local government areas of the state.