The old students of Darul Uloom Arabic School, Ilorin, Kwara State, have urged the state government to increase support for Arabic schools in the state, describing it as veritable channels to nurture and promote moral and good behaviour in the society, especially among youths.

Speaking with journalists in Ilorin as part of activities marking 60th anniversary of the school, the old students, led by Professor Hamzat Abdulraheem of the Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, called on the state government to come to the aid of the Arabic school with provision of grant that would make it perform such function more effectively.

Professor Abdulraheem, who said that the Arabic school had contributed to moral education in the Ilorin community over the years, with production of scholars, professionals and academics, added that the state government could grant aid to the school in the form of building of structure, provision of books etc.

He also said that social vices, especially, among youth would be curbed with moral and religious education taught in Arabic schools.

“In view of the above, we are using this opportunity to appeal to state government to assist Darul Uloom by taking over the payment of salaries of teachers depending on their qualifications. In addition, some Arab countries may be contacted to send teachers of science subjects in Arabic, which will make students diversify their areas of study when they have the opportunity to study in the Arab world.

“All support so far given by the state government to Arabic education is highly appreciated and we seek for more support for the overall development of Arabic education in the state.

The people also suggested that the government should make the Arabic language serve as an alternative source of instruction in schools.

Darul Uloom Arabic school in Isale koto was established in 1963 by the then Emir, Alhaji Zulkarnain Gambari Muhammed in collaboration with the Ulamaa and Imams in llorin.

Thus, in the late 50s and early 60s the idea began to gather momentum and came into fruition in 1963 by establishing Darul Uloom and put it under the academic guidance of Sheikh Adam Abdullah Al-ilory, the multi-talented scholar and the most prolific Arabic writer of our time.

The programme of events for the celebrations include Special Friday prayer at ilorin central mosque, Award presentation/book launch under the chairmanship of His Excellency, the Governor of Kwara State as well as Special debate on the future of Arabic in Nigeria.