In the heart of Gashua, a town in Yobe State in Nigeria’s troubled northeast, the entrance to a local Islamic seminary is marked by a striking collection of colorful flip-flops. This visual curiosity leads visitors to the Makaranta Mallama Habiba Aliyu Seminary, where faith and literacy have become powerful allies. This woman champions education in a place where the intellectual needs of children are often neglected.
Founded by 52-year-old Habiba Aliyu over two decades ago, the seminary initially focused exclusively on Qur’anic teachings. However, in 2023, Habiba transformed the school’s curriculum to include literacy and numeracy lessons, helping over 200 children develop critical skills beyond religious study. This forward-thinking shift has placed her seminary among the few Tsangaya centers embracing modern education alongside faith.
From Faith Alone to Faith and Learning
Habiba Aliyu’s seminary started as a traditional Tsangaya school in 2002, but her love for education and concern for the children’s futures prompted her to introduce basic literacy lessons. With the expansion, she has seen the school flourish.
“In this environment, it is easy to think that Islamic knowledge is all the children need,” she explained. “But I know that their futures require much more. When they learn to read, write, and count, they are equipped to face life’s challenges. We cannot let them stay in ignorance.”
Her decision to introduce these new subjects has drawn widespread support. The population of students surged, and with the help of UNICEF and the German Development Bank (BMZ), two additional teachers were recruited. Mats, learning materials, and handwashing stations now enrich the learning environment. Habiba remains adamant that knowledge in multiple areas is essential for the well-being of every child.
Reducing the Education Deficit in Conflict Zones
The seminary’s integration of numeracy and literacy is part of a broader UNICEF-supported effort. Over 680 Tsangaya centers across Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States now offer similar programs. These interventions are especially critical in the northeast, where more than 1.5 million children remain out of school due to the ongoing Boko Haram insurgency.
Habiba emphasized that she encourages other seminary leaders to follow her example. “An illiterate person is like a corpse,” she said. “Children must acquire more than one form of knowledge to thrive. I tell other seminaries: the path to a better future starts with education.”
Her vision extends beyond the classroom. “I believe that these children are destined for greatness. Among them are future governors, engineers, and leaders. Even when I am no longer here, they will carry the lessons they learned in this school with them.”
Community and Family Support
Habiba’s personal story is also a testament to her commitment. Although she had to leave school early due to lack of support, she ensured that her three children received both Islamic and formal education. One of her children now serves in the army, while another recently gained admission into a nursing school.
Her efforts have earned praise from both the local community and development partners. With additional backing from BMZ and UNICEF, the seminary is poised to continue providing essential learning opportunities in a region deeply affected by conflict.
Conclusion
Habiba Aliyu’s blend of faith and education is helping to shape a brighter future for children in northeast Nigeria. Her initiative offers a blueprint for other religious institutions, showing that education can thrive even in the most challenging environments. For more insights on gender-focused educational strategies, explore the resources available at Genderpedia’s store.
