Onuminya Ochowechi in sokoto
The Sokoto State government and the United Nation Children Fund, (UNICEF) have signed a memorandum of understanding to integrate over 132,000 Almajiris and adolescent girls into western education.
Addressing journalists after signing the document, A’ishatu Dantsoho, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, said the programme would cover the 23 Local Government Areas of the state. Dantsoho explained that the partnership had six thematic areas, and eight Local Government Areas were selected for the pilot programme to cover at least 5,000 Out-of-School children and adolescents girls under the first phase.
She said the ministry would handle the adolescents girls programme, while the Board of Arabic and Islamic Education will integrate Almajiri children into formal education.
According to her, children and girls within school age will be reintegrated back to the school system with the support of Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, and the State Primary Education Board.
She further explained that adolescents girls would in addition to formal education, receive vocational training and business skills, and linked to health, livelihoods, hygiene, sanitation and other services.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary, Arabic and Islamic Education Board, Dr. Altine Dandin-Mahe, said the landmark programme will reduce the percentage of Out-of-School children in the state.
Speaking ealier, UNICEF’s Deputy Field Officer Almustapha Danjuma, said synergy is key to achieving progress in child protection.
He said UNICEF is committed to wellbeing of children, especially in the area of education.
