Talibes

Talibes are young boys, typically between the ages of four and fifteen, who attend traditional Islamic schools in Senegal and other West African countries known as daaras. These schools are run by marabouts, or religious teachers. The primary goal of a daara is to educate students in the Quran and Islamic teachings. Many talibes come from rural families who send their children to the daaras with the hope of them receiving a religious education and a better future.

The daily life of a talibe is often characterized by rigorous study and communal living. They usually wake early for prayers and spend their days memorizing the Quran and studying religious texts. Living conditions can vary significantly between daaras, with some being more established and better resourced than others. Many talibes are expected to contribute to the upkeep of the daara, which often involves begging for alms in public places to provide for themselves and their teachers. This practice, known as *talibé* begging, is a common sight in Senegalese cities.

While the intention of the daara system is education, concerns have been raised by human rights organizations regarding the welfare of some talibes. Issues such as child labor, inadequate living conditions, and physical or emotional abuse have been reported in some instances. These concerns have led to calls for reform and increased oversight of the daara system to ensure the protection and well-being of all talibes. The Senegalese government has taken some steps to address these issues, but the situation remains complex and multifaceted.