Rochas Okorocha to build Almajiri schools in Six Northern States

The immediate past Governor of Imo State, Senator Rochas Okorocha, has concluded plans to build six modern Almajiri Schools, also known as Tsangaya, in six states in Northern Nigeria.

The initiative is part of Senator Rochas Okorocha’s efforts, under the aegis of The Rochas Foundation, to raise the standard of education especially at the grassroot level in the Northern states and improve the overall quality of learning.

Speaking on Monday while receiving the leader of Tijjaniya Islamic Sect in Africa, Sheikh Ahmad Mahi-Nyass, the Foundation’s Chief of Staff and former deputy governor of Bauchi State, Abdulmalik Mahmud listed the beneficiary states as Bauchi, Borno, Kano, Katsina, Yobe and Zamfara.

Mahmud, who also disclosed that the schools will combine teaching in both Qur’anic and western education, said that there is a correlation between illiteracy and insecurity which can only be addressed through concerted effort by all stakeholders.

Mr. Mahi-Nyass thanked Senator Okorocha for his foresight in building the schools for the benefit of Muslims although he is a Christian and called on public spirited individuals to follow the initiative of the serving Senator.

Principal of the Foundation College, Sarah Johnson, said that the school was set up to cater to the educational needs of indigent parents in the state.

She said the objective underlines the philosophy of the school to enroll students free or charge with free uniforms, bags and instructional materials.

Mrs. Johnson disclosed that over 4,000 students have graduated from the Rochas Foundation colleges nationwide with many already in successful professional practice.