Basidia M Drammeh
Quranic memorization centers have been playing a pivotal role in our society, producing hundreds of children who have memorized the Holy Quran by heart; however, in recent times, several fire incidents have been reported at various Quranic memorization centers in the Gambia, resulting in significant damage to the facilities. Two fire incidents were reported on Saturday alone, raising concerns among the general public about safety standards in these Quranic centers. In 2021, a major fire broke out at Bilal Boarding School for Quran Memorization for Boys in New Yundum, claiming the lives of seven children.
I haven’t found any scientific research into the causes of recurring fire incidents, nor have I come across a police report outlining the outcomes of investigations into these fire outbreaks at Quranic Memorization centers, particularly in the Greater Banjul Area. However, some people claim that these fire incidents are arson attacks committed by disgruntled students who are forced to join these centers, especially those from the diaspora. In my opinion, that suggestion only superficially addresses the issue and there’s more than meets the eye.
Firstly, these centers are not regulated, so anybody can build them however they want without state oversight. The state should oversee these facilities to ensure that they meet minimum safety and hygiene standards and that the owners are financially and administratively capable of operating them. The state must audit these boarding schools and close centers that fail to meet standards.
Secondly, a boarding school catering to children should have recreation facilities, such as a playground and TV room, where children can enjoy entertainment during breaks. As the English saying goes, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” However, most of these centers lack such facilities. In fact, some of them do not even have proper toilets, let alone recreational facilities.
Thirdly, the operators of these centers must be qualified and certified. They will be responsible for the lives and well-being of these kids. Simply memorizing the Holy Quran, as important as it is, should not be the only criterion or qualification to run a boarding school.
Fourthly, parents should refrain from sending their unruly kids to these facilities. It is widely known that in The Gambia, parents often send their unruly children to Islamic schools to be raised by the schools. Some of these kids may engage in activities that could potentially have a negative impact on other children in these facilities. Besides, parents from the diaspora who send their kids should have conversations with their children and mentally prepare them for such a mission. The age of the child should also be taken into consideration.
Fifthly, People should avoid looking at this issue through an emotional lens. The state must be allowed to deal with this issue without being seen as an attempt by the authorities to antagonize Muslims. The issue at stake is about lives and livelihoods.
Let’s not wait until disaster strikes because the issue is a time bomb.
