By Mahdi Waziri Isa
In a move to strengthen institutional ties and promote economic empowerment through cultural education, Professor Ibrahim Muhammad, Director of the Nigeria Arabic Language Village (NALV), visited Arewa House in Kaduna on Thursday, April 24, 2025. He met with Professor Salisu Bala, Director of Arewa House, to discuss a potential collaboration on the Arabic Calligraphy Empowerment Initiative—a skills acquisition program designed for Sangaya teachers.
The initiative aims to equip traditional Arabic instructors with professional calligraphy skills, enhancing their economic prospects while preserving cultural heritage. Professor Muhammad was warmly received by Professor Bala and renowned calligraphy expert Malam Yushaa Abdullahi.
During the meeting, Professor Muhammad emphasized the dual value of Arabic calligraphy as both an art form and a livelihood tool.
“Our objective is to harness the aesthetic and economic value of Arabic calligraphy as a medium of empowerment, particularly for Alarammas who play a pivotal role in the grassroots dissemination of Arabic literacy. This art form, deeply rooted in our cultural heritage, can serve as a sustainable means of livelihood for educators,” he stated.
He also revealed that NALV had successfully advocated for integrating Arabic calligraphy into the Almajiri education system through a policy memo approved by the Joint Consultative Committee on Education (JCCE).
Professor Bala praised the initiative, calling it a vital step toward cultural preservation and economic resilience.
“Arabic calligraphy is not just an artistic discipline; it is a bridge between our cultural identity and economic resilience. Empowering our Alarammas through this initiative will preserve an important part of our heritage while opening doors to new income opportunities,” he said.
Both institutions agreed to collaborate on curriculum development, training workshops, and outreach programs to maximize the initiative’s impact across Northern Nigeria and beyond.
The NALV delegation included key officials such as Registrar Ali Abdullahi Ali Rawa, Bursar Malam Mustapha, and Acting Director of Public Affairs Umar Sanda Mohammed, among others.
The meeting concluded with plans for a structured partnership to advance Arabic calligraphy as a tool for economic empowerment and cultural revival.