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Model Mallam

An Almajiri Teachers' Empowerment in Kebbi State

PROJECT SUMMARY

The Model Mallam is an Almajiri Teacher Empowerment Project that seeks to invest in progressive and forward thinking Almajiri teachers with existing agro-based means of income with the aim of transforming them into models for other Mallams.


The bigger picture is to provide literacy and transform the almajiris through a more effective, albeit indirect method.
Research has shown that there is direct correlation between a forward thinking Mallam and enlightened students (almajiris). This programme is informed by such studies and we hope to further validate this finding by the end of the pilot phase of this project.

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“An investment in Knowledge pays the best interest”

Benjamin Franklin

RATIONALE

ICF conducted a Baseline study in Kebbi state in March 2022 and identified two forward-thinking Mallams among the participants in the study. The study adopted a traditional relationship building-cum- a scientific approach. The
interviewer introduced a casual system while seeking permission to record audio responses which were later uploaded on the pre-set Questionnaire on Kobo Toolbox.

Benchmark for Selecting the Model Mallams for Pilot Phase

Two Mallams were selected from Arugungu and Augie respectively following the following benchmarks:

  • Must be young and forward-thinking.
  • Have a basic understanding of modern technology demonstrated with at least the possession of a smartphone.
  • A student population of less than 300.
  • Actively engaged in Agriculture in addition to teaching students.
  • Willingness to expose his students to Western-styled learning and literacy.
  • A bachelor’s degree is an additional advantage

Two Mallams fulfilled these criteria and were selected for the pilot phase.

IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY

The pilot will last for at least 18 months and a maximum of 24  months. Mallams will be empowered with the needs highlighted in the Baseline study i.e. additional accommodation for students, tablets/computers, fertilizers, agro-based training, and an alternative means of electricity, especially at night. Further empowerment will come through the direct purchase of farm produce to increase their revenue base.


To increase a sense of organization among students and enable a smooth transition to Western Education, we might experiment with the idea of school uniforms for students from the selected schools.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

A mind-set change among the selected Mallams that trickles down to their students (almajiris) and colleagues (other Almajiri teachers).

Value addition to their existing means of livelihood (farming) through the establishment of a formal business relationship with TGI Group.

Provision of basic literacy, numeracy and digital skills.

Findings from the pilot will justify the need or otherwise for an expansion of this
model to other Almajiri schools in Kebbi State and beyond.

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