Former Almajiri children graduate with tech skills in Nigeria

In a significant move to combat Nigeria's out-of-school children crisis, 21 former Almajiri children have graduated as certified technology technicians and entrepreneurs. This milestone was achieved through the Out-of-School Children/Almajiri-to-Tech Foundation, offering a pathway through digital skills and vocational education.

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About six months ago, some of these children could not even write their names in English. Today, they can build computers, robots and drones with their own hands and repair more than 10 types of electrical appliances.

The graduates, comprising 14 boys and seven girls, underwent an intensive six-month training program. They acquired practical skills in various fields, including computer repairs, desktop assembly, robotics, drone technology, and the maintenance of electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, power banks, televisions, and microwave ovens.

The graduation ceremony in Abuja celebrated the transformation of these children, many of whom previously survived by begging on the streets under the Almajiri system. Mr. Tim Akano, founder of the foundation and Managing Director of New Horizons System Solutions Limited, described the achievement as a "resurrection."

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Every child can succeed when given access to education, digital skills and the right opportunities.

"About six months ago, some of these children could not even write their names in English. Today, they can build computers, robots and drones with their own hands and repair more than 10 types of electrical appliances," Akano stated. He emphasized that "Every child can succeed when given access to education, digital skills and the right opportunities."

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If they were a country, they would rank among West Africa’s largest populations. Conferences do not empower children; action does. This problem can be solved within five years if there is sufficient political will.

The foundation's "Vision 2031" initiative aims to remove all children from the streets by 2031. Akano urged governments, corporations, and individuals to invest in practical solutions, noting that Nigeria's estimated 30 million out-of-school children represent a vast, untapped human capital resource. He called for government action, including criminalizing child abandonment and street begging after providing alternatives, enforcing compulsory education, and establishing rehabilitation programs. Former Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, also present, described the crisis as a national emergency.

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The widely quoted estimate of 30 million out-of-school children was likely an understatement.