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By Tracy Moses
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has provided working tools to 150 almajirai students who completed vocational training under his administration’s programme.
The initiative, which covers a wide range of trades, is designed to equip beneficiaries with essential skills for economic self-sufficiency.
The trained individuals, selected from across the State, received tools for various trades, including electrical installation and repair, solar installation and repair, leatherwork, welding, carpentry, and building construction.
Aside the tools, the Governor also provided financial support to help the beneficiaries launch their businesses and contribute to the local economy.
The Governor, during his speech at the presentation ceremony in Maiduguri, the Borno State Capital on Wednesday, emphasized the importance of skill acquisition in empowering individuals and communities.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to providing sustainable livelihoods for the almajirai, a group that has often faced marginalization in the past.
“By attending this training programme, you have taken a crucial step toward securing your future. Equipped with new skills, you now have the power to transform your dreams into reality,” he stated.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Borno State Government to integrate almajirai into the socio-economic fabric of the state, which has historically struggled with issues related to child education, welfare, and development.
The Borno State Government’s vocational training programme has been lauded for its practical approach, aimed not just at education but at tangible outcomes that foster community growth.
Governor Zulum also said that his administration’s efforts to support Sangaya Islamic education remain a priority. In line with this, he assured the almajirai that the state government would continue to invest in educational resources for Islamic learning.
“As the Governor of Borno State, I assure you that our Government remains fully committed to supporting Sangaya Islamic education. We will continue investing in Sangaya educational resources to ensure every learner can access quality teaching and learning essentials,” he assured.
However, the Governor also raised concerns about the rising cases of abuse and exploitation of children, particularly within the context of Islamic education.
He reiterated that the state government would not tolerate any form of molestation, including corporal punishment, within any educational environment, particularly against the students.
“I stand firm in the commitment that the Borno State Government will not tolerate any form of molestation or violence, such as caning against any Almajiri. Every one of you, regardless of your background, deserves to be treated with respect and dignity,” he added.
The commitment to safeguarding children echoes similar sentiments voiced by Governor Zulum during his previous engagements.
Recall that in January 2021, he launched the “Almajiri Rehabilitation Programme,” which focused on ensuring better welfare and education for almajirai. The program included providing access to formal education, healthcare, and vocational training to facilitate their successful integration into society. Also recall that in July 2022, he presented the first batch of vocational training tools to 200 almajirai, an initiative that received commendation from local and international bodies alike.
“We must work collectively to ensure our society embraces the protection and development of every child,” Governor Zulum concluded, reinforcing the importance of community-driven efforts to uphold the dignity and rights of all children in Borno State, ” he stressed.