Somali Government Launches Assessment of Quranic Schools, Citing Poor Facilities, Oversight

Somalia launches nationwide census of Quranic schools amid concern over conditions

MOGADISHU — Somalia’s Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs has begun a nationwide census of Quranic schools, responding to rising complaints that many centers operate in places and conditions considered unsuitable for children’s learning.

Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs Sheikh Mukhtar Robow Ali said the assessment is designed to establish a clear picture of Quranic schools across the country so the government can plan, allocate resources and address persistent concerns about standards and safety.

“The ministry is conducting a census of Quranic schools. Even the President of the Republic said during a meeting with scholars that many of these schools are located in inappropriate places. We will review the teachers and their circumstances,” Minister Robow said.

He added that while no dedicated budget has yet been set aside for the sector, the government “will contribute to their development as much as it can.” The assessment is intended to identify gaps, prioritize needs and inform a roadmap for improving the learning environment in Quranic centers, which are a cornerstone of early education and religious instruction for Somali children.

The announcement follows repeated appeals for the federal government to strengthen oversight and support for Quranic schools, many of which serve large numbers of students with limited facilities. Education and community leaders have urged authorities to ensure safer spaces, better-trained teachers and more consistent standards, while preserving the religious mission and community roots of the institutions.

Robow also used the announcement to call for greater respect and parity from families toward students enrolled in Quranic schooling. He criticized a pattern he said he has observed in which children heading to Quranic lessons are treated less favorably than those attending formal schools.

“Some people do this. For example, a child attending a Quranic school is sent wearing old clothes from home, while a child going to formal school is given clean, ironed, well-sewn clothing. We want parents to value Quranic education and dress their children with dignity,” he said.

The ministry said the census will encompass a review of teachers’ qualifications and working conditions as part of the push to improve quality. Officials did not disclose further details of the process but emphasized that the findings will guide policy, resource deployment and any immediate interventions.

Quranic schools play a central role in Somali society, providing foundational religious education and literacy. The ministry’s move signals an effort to both elevate standards and reaffirm the value of Quranic learning, while responding to public complaints about unsafe locations and uneven conditions.

As the count gets underway, Somali officials are positioning the initiative as a first step toward a broader reform agenda—one focused on safer learning environments, strengthened teacher support and a clearer partnership between communities and the state in the stewardship of Quranic education.

By Ali Musa

Axadle Times international–Monitoring.