Upgrading Qur’anic schools will protect children and prevent radicalisation in West Africa and the Sahel.

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has called for the modernisation of traditional Islamic schools to tackle rising terrorism and violent extremism in West Africa and the Sahel.

Dr Omar Touray, ECOWAS Commission President, said improving these schools will help stop street begging, child abuse, and recruitment of children by extremist groups.

“These schools educate millions but remain neglected. Modernising them will create safe learning centres and economic opportunities,” he said.

The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, described the conference as a step toward peace and cooperation in the region.

Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas of the African Union added that over 40 million children are out of school, and terrorism-related deaths have risen by 10 per cent.

The conference, organised by Jam’iyyatu Ansariddeen Attijjaniyya with ECOWAS, included representatives from the African Union, UN agencies, and Interpol

Source: Vanguard