President Bola Tinubu’s administration has approved major reforms to Nigeria’s Almajiri education system.
The new policy bans Almajiri pupils from begging on streets or doing menial jobs.
It also introduces literacy, mathematics, computer skills and vocational training alongside Qur’anic education.
Under the Almajiri education reform, registered learning centres must stop sending children out to seek alms.
The policy warns that centres violating the rule could face sanctions or lose approval.
“No learner(s) shall be sent out to beg in the street or do menial jobs.”
The government said the reforms aim to protect children while improving their education and future opportunities.
Learners will now receive training in reading, numeracy, digital skills, Arabic, civic education and life skills.
They will also receive technical and vocational training based on their interests and parental guidance.
For the first time, recognised Almajiri centres will offer nationally recognised certificates after successful completion.
The reforms will also require centres to register with relevant state or local authorities.
Schools must keep learner records, including biometric information, to support proper monitoring and planning.
The government has also introduced health, sanitation, water and safety standards for learning centres.
Registered schools may receive learning materials, healthcare, nutrition support, feeding programmes and other government assistance.
The policy also provides training opportunities for Alarammas and other teachers working in the system.
The Federal Government said the reforms are designed to improve the existing system rather than remove it.
“It is developed not to take over learning centres but to provide clear operational guidelines, direction and streamline activities of the Almajiri education system. This is to guarantee the learners’ and teachers’ security, promote their well-being and engender economic productivity among the learners,” the document stated.
The Almajiri education reform will involve federal, state and local authorities, traditional leaders, parents and community groups.
Officials said the policy is also expected to help reduce Nigeria’s large number of out-of-school children.
The National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education will coordinate its nationwide implementation.
