Importance of Education in Addressing Street Begging Among Children

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar lll, recently highlighted the importance of education in combating the issue of street begging among children in Nigeria. He emphasized that education is crucial in building an enlightened and informed population, as well as a prosperous society. The Sultan’s remarks came during the inauguration of the Zamfara State Almajiri Integrated Qur’anic Education Center in Gummi, where he expressed his concern over the prevalence of begging among Almajiri students.

The Sultan’s Concerns

In his address, the Sultan lamented the fact that northern leaders cannot effectively educate children if they continue to allow them to beg on the streets. He stressed that while Qur’anic schools play a vital role in imparting religious education and values to children, the practice of begging among Almajiri students remains a significant issue that needs to be addressed.

The Sultan emphasized the need for the construction of integrated schools that cater to the educational needs of society. He believes that such schools can help reduce the number of out-of-school children and put an end to begging in the name of learning. The Sultan also stated that every government must prioritize education, as he firmly believes that all good things stem from education, while ignorance leads to detrimental outcomes.

Government’s Response

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara echoed the Sultan’s sentiments and reassured the public of the government’s commitment to safeguarding the future of younger generations. He emphasized the importance of creating a conducive and enabling environment for children to grow and thrive. The governor announced the establishment of a vocational center at the Almajiri Integrated Qur’anic Education Center, where children will be trained in skills such as woodwork, sewing, and metalwork, among others.

In addition to providing educational facilities, Governor Lawal highlighted the government’s efforts to ensure the overall well-being of students at the center. He pledged to provide adequate feeding and other essential services for the students, underscoring the government’s dedication to supporting their educational journey. The governor also named the center after Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar III, in recognition of his tireless advocacy for education and social development.

Infrastructure Development

As part of its commitment to improving healthcare services in the state, the Zamfara government inaugurated the upgraded and renovated General Hospital in Nasarwa Burkullu and Maru General Hospital. These initiatives aim to enhance access to quality healthcare for residents in Bukkuyum Local Government Area and beyond. The renovations and upgrades demonstrate the government’s dedication to enhancing essential services and infrastructure for the benefit of the community.

In conclusion, the Sultan’s call for prioritizing education as a means to tackle street begging among children is a timely reminder of the critical role education plays in shaping a prosperous and enlightened society. By investing in integrated educational facilities and vocational training programs, the government of Zamfara State is taking significant steps towards addressing the root causes of street begging and ensuring a brighter future for the next generation. Through collaboration and sustained efforts, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society where every child has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.