BACKGROUND
More than 100,000 young boys in Senegal, called Talibés, are forced to beg in the streets to earn money for their childcare and education. They are sent by their families to live at Qur’anic schools called Daaras. Their teachers, called Marabouts, are charged with educating and caring for the boys. With few alternative sources of income, many Marabouts resort to forced begging to finance the school’s operations and the children’s care. In some cases, Talibés who fail to earn a daily quota are physically and emotionally abused. The Talibés are deprived of food, shelter, clothing, and healthcare every day. While begging, they are vulnerable to violent crime and the elements. Thousands of boys are illegally trafficked from neighboring countries to Senegal to participate in this religious education system each year.
KEY TERMS
Talibés
Qur’anic students living and studying at Qur’anic schools in Senegal are called “Talibés.” In Arabic, Talibé simply means “student.” Most Talibés are boys. Their families send them to learn Arabic and the Qur’an. Child Talibés are called “Guné Talibés,” and adolescents and young adults are called “Grands Talibés.”
Marabouts
In Senegal, teachers at Qur’anic schools are called “Marabouts.” Often former Talibés themselves, grow up to become the leaders of Qur’anic schools. Marabouts are responsible for the education, health, and well-being of the children sent to them, but frequently lack the necessary resources to perform this function.
Daaras
The Qur’anic schools where Talibés live and study are called “Daaras.” Many Daaras in Senegal are in poor physical condition. They commonly lack a water source and sanitary toilets. Additionally, Marabouts often have trouble affording roofing, bedding, and mosquito nets, leaving the children exposed to the elements and at-risk for disease.