Yemi Obafemi
Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, on Friday approved stipends worth ₦300,000 for parents and students, alongside the provision of one free daily meal, to boost school enrolment in insurgency-affected communities.
Zulum made the announcement while inaugurating the Higher Islamic College in Gajiganna town, designed to integrate the traditional Almajiri (Sangaya) education system with formal learning. Each student’s father will receive ₦250,000, while their mothers and the students themselves will get ₦50,000 each.
“In this town with a population of about 50,000, only 90 students are enrolled in secondary school. It is imperative to ensure that these students complete their studies,” the governor said.
He explained that the Higher Islamic College would run a curriculum approved by the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS), blending Islamic scholarship with science, mathematics, technology, and foundational English.
“Our goal is to provide our children, especially Sangaya learners, with the knowledge and skills required to thrive in today’s world. Our reforms safeguard the cherished values of Islamic scholarship while introducing modern subjects and vocational training,” Zulum noted.
As part of his engagements, the governor also commissioned the Government Day Secondary School, intended to serve as a referral centre for pupils completing primary education in the town.
