Bauchi State Governor, Sen Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir, has reiterated the commitment of his administration to repositioning Tsangaya and Islamiyya education system to make it accessible, qualitative and efficient for all the stakeholders.
The Governor was speaking at the opening 2-day capacity training for Tsangaya and Islamic Teachers in Bauchi state held at the Conference Room of the Sa’ad Abubakar International Hajj Camp, Bauchi.
The Governor described the initiative as apt and stressed that the present teaching methodology in most Tsangaya and Islamiyya schools across the state is not favourable.
Bala Mohammed, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Barrister Ibrahim Kashim, said that his administration has taken effective measures to address the challenges with a view to providing equal opportunity for every child to acquire both Islamic and conventional education.
He then commended organizers of the training, saying that it came at the right time when his administration is doing everything possible to revamp the education sector in order to make it more efficient and effective.
In her address, Bauchi State First Lady, Aisha Bala Mohammed, said that “As the Wife of the Bauchi State Governor, I am deeply committed to the cause of education, particularly Islamic education, which plays a vital role in shaping the minds and hearts of our youth.
“Today’s gathering marks a significant step forward in our collective efforts to enhance the quality of education provided in Tsangaya schools and Islamic institutions across our great state.”
The First Lady, whose Almuhibba Foundation collaborated to organise the training, said that the theme of the capacity-building training; “Revitalization and Transformation,” was organized by her office in collaboration with the Islamic Center For PeaceBuilding, Research And Development (IC-PAD) Abuja.
“It underscores the need for us to reflect on the current state of Tsangaya and Islamic education and envision a future that is not only rich in tradition but also adaptive to the evolving needs of our society.
“Our Tsangaya schools have a long and cherished history, serving as centers of learning and character-building for generations. However, in the face of modern challenges, it is incumbent upon us to breathe new life into these institutions, ensuring they remain vibrant places of knowledge, compassion, and community development,” she noted l.
Continuing, Aisha Bala Muhammed said that the training programme was designed to equip Islamic school teachers with the tools, methodologies, and innovative approaches necessary for the 21st century.
“We must embrace technology, modern teaching techniques, and collaborative learning environments to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for challenges and opportunities of the future.
“I encourage each one of you to actively participate in the workshops, discussions, and knowledge-sharing sessions over the course of this training. Your dedication and willingness are crucial in fostering an environment where our students can thrive academically, morally, and socially.
“In addition to academic excellence, let us also focus on instilling values of tolerance, compassion, and respect for diversity in our students. A well-rounded Islamic education not only imparts knowledge but also molds individuals who contribute positively to the betterment of society.
“As we embark into the revitalization and transformation of Tsangaya and Islamic education, let us keep in mind the tremendous impact we can have on the lives of our students and, consequently, the broader community. Together, we can build a future where the light of knowledge goes to every corner of Bauchi State, fostering a society that cherishes both tradition and progress,” she added.
While appreciating the laudable collaboration to improve the knowledge of the Islamic teachers, Aisha Bala Mohammed said that,”I equally pray that may Allah bless our endeavors, guide our actions, and grant us success in this noble pursuit of revitalizing and transforming Tsangaya and Islamic education in Bauchi State.”
Earlier in her remarks, the State Commissioner of Education, Dr. Jamila Dahiru, said that already, the Ministry has taken the profile of pupils and Tsangaya school teachers across the state in an effort to incorporate them into the state education policy under the Better Education Service Delivery for All (BESDA).
The Chairman, IC-PAD, Prof. Ibrahim Makari, advocated for the introduction of a special endowment fund aimed at supporting Islamic education system towards achieving the desired objective.
He therefore charged the participants to take full advantage of the opportunity provided.
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