Qatar Foundation Pledges Support for Nigeria’s Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education Initiative
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has secured the commitment of the Qatar Foundation to support Nigeria’s efforts in tackling the challenge of over 15 million out-of-school children — the highest number globally.
Senator Tinubu met with the Founder and Chairperson of the Qatar Foundation, Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Al-Missned, in Doha, Qatar, where discussions centered on collaboration to reform the Almajiri education system and expand access to quality learning for vulnerable children across Nigeria.
Speaking during the meeting, the First Lady said the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Education, is embarking on a transformative model of Almajiri schools that integrates Islamic and formal education.
“These schools will provide safe and conducive learning environments that combine academic learning with moral and vocational training,” she said. “Each facility will include a mosque, boarding facilities, skills acquisition centers, and residences for Imams and caregivers. This holistic approach will ensure children acquire both formal and Islamic education free from exploitation, while gaining life skills to help them build meaningful futures.”
Senator Tinubu emphasized that given the scale of the challenge and limited national resources, Nigeria requires strong global partnerships. “Your Highness represents the kind of visionary partner that can help us turn this dream into reality,” she told Sheikha Moza.
The First Lady commended the Qatar Foundation’s landmark contributions to global education, including the establishment of Education City — home to over 40 schools, universities, and the Qatar National Library — and its success in enrolling over 10 million marginalized children worldwide.
“Watching your incredible work reinforces our conviction that meaningful change is possible,” Senator Tinubu added. “We believe collaboration with your esteemed organization can provide the critical support we need.”
In response, Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Al-Missned assured of the Foundation’s readiness to actively support Nigeria’s Almajiri and out-of-school children education programs. She noted that the Qatar Foundation would partner with the Federal Ministry of Education to train teachers and administrators for the proposed schools to ensure quality outcomes.
Earlier, the First Lady toured the Qatar Foundation headquarters, where she was received by the Foundation’s CEO, Mr. Yousif Al Na’am, and briefed on the organization’s global initiatives. She also learned that 41 Nigerians have graduated from the Mohammed bin Khalifa University.
Senator Tinubu was accompanied on the visit by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate; Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmed; and Executive
Secretary of the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education, Dr. Muhammad Sani Idris.
No comments