Nigeria, May 8 -- In bustling northern cities like Kano, Sokoto, and Maiduguri, thousands of barefoot children roam the streets, bowls in hand, reciting Islamic verses under the hot sun. They are known as Almajiris young boys sent far from their homes to study the Qur'an under the tutelage of a Mallam, a religious teacher. In the early days, this practice was revered as a way to foster strong, educated Islamic scholars. However, today the Almajiri system has spiraled into a dire crisis, leaving children vulnerable to poverty, exploitation, illiteracy, and even radicalization.

The system's original intent was noble. It provided an opportunity for children, particularly those from rural communities, to study the Qur'an in a traditional set...