The Milk of Human Kindness: Curbing Almajiri Vulnerability through Vocational Skill Training in Construction Crafts

Abstract

Almajiri is a name given to a youthful emigrant purported to be in search of Islamic scholarship. Considering the nature of the Almajiris and their life style, they are people who are in need of assistance to reinvent them and live a productive life. This study explores ways which Almajiris vulnerability can be curbed through vocational skill training in construction crafts. A qualitative study of 24 TVET lecturers drawn from six universities spread across Northern Nigeria where the Almajiris exist. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data obtained through the interview which lead to the emergence of three dominant issues that could be adopted to curb the vulnerability of Almajir through vocational skill training in construction crafts- Societal reorientation, Stakeholders collaboration, Training, incentive and empowerment. An implication for future research on the Almajiri system both in Nigeria and in other African countries where the system is being practiced was also highlighted.