Architecture for Almajiri Children: A Proposal for Education, Shelter, and Skill Development

Abstract

The Almajiri education system in Northern Nigeria (Kano, Kaduna, Sokoto) has been historically significant as an element of the Islamic learning and socialization process, but in its contemporary form, it now faces serious difficulties in terms of infrastructure, child welfare, and integration within society. Many Almajiri children do not have access to proper accommodation, formal education, and vocational training, which results in a vicious circle of impoverishment, exclusion from society, and vulnerability. The present thesis explores the importance of architecture as a tool that addresses the above-mentioned difficulties through the creation of a school facility that would combine education, accommodation, and vocational learning. The selected site is situated in Kaduna State, Northern Nigeria, and the design approach to the facility is based on context-sensitive architecture. The main principle of the design is the idea of integrating a place of learning which offers Qur’anic education, classroom education, practical skills training, accommodation, and recreational activities. The key principles of design are the use of local materials such as stabilized earth blocks, wood, and laterite, as well as climatically responsive architecture techniques (courtyards, shading, ventilation). The use of spatial components of architectural design will enable the project to restore the dignity of the Almajiri system of education through the creation of safe, inclusive, and humane learning spaces that promote the development of the individual. It is the thesis of this research that the combination of three elements: education, housing, and training skills in a single architectural project will help to socially reintegrate Almajiri children. Lastly, it is the hypothesis of this research that architecture will act as a means of bringing about social transformation in education.

Date of Award	2026
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	HBKU College of Islamic Studies