By Mukhtar Abdulle
Traditional Somali Quran Schools have been a bedrock of a system of Islamic education that flourished amongst the Somali community of the Horn of Africa region. Forming an important pillar of basic Islamic education, the school Known as Dugsi, is an age long institution that forms an unforgettable childhood memory of every Somali.
Islamic historians say schools typical of the Somali Dugsi have existed in Middle East and Africa since the 7th century AD. It shares a set of historical roots that can be traced back to Arabia and the education practice of prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
In modern times, the Dugsi continues to carve out its niche with positive impact. The high number of Somalis who are able to recite and memorize the entire Quran is a powerful testimony of the manifest success of this highly embraced traditional system of education.
Yet in Minnesota, a state in the Upper Midwestern region of the United States, the Dugsi continues to render its historic role of been an integral part of Somali family life, holding even greater significance since many Somalis have migrated overseas. It plays a vital role in preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Somali people.
The primary function of the Dugsi is to provide instruction in Quran recitation, memorization, and Islamic Studies. While some may question how the Dugsi contributes to the preservation of Somali Culture when it doesn’t offer classes on Somali Language, literature, stories, or cuisine.
It’s important to note that the transmission of culture doesn’t always occur through formal subjects. Instead, it can take on various subtle and indirect forms. Dugsi is just more than after school or weekend program but serves as a hub for Islamic education, cultural education and Somali Language retention.
The Dugsi plays a crucial role in preserving Somali culture by emphasizing Islamic teachings and values derived from the Quran. Among the world’s nations, the Somali people stand out as over 99% of the population are Muslims who believe in the Quran as the ultimate guidance from Allah. The teaching of the Dugsi often include reference to cultural norms, ethics which are intertwined in the fabric of the Somali Society. Here are some ways Dugsi contribute to Somali Culture Continuity;
Language Preservation and Retention
Dugsi frequently provides Quran and Islamic Studies classes in the Somali language, which the majority of the children comprehend, even if they are unable to respond or engage in conversations in the language. As the teacher communicates, provides instructions, and explains concepts in Somali, students acquire an expanded vocabulary. This facilitates their ability to communicate with older individuals within the community and with family members in the homelands.
It has been observed that Children who attend Dugsi comprehend Somali better than those who do not attend at all. In some Dugsis,students are even exposed to the two main Somali dialects of Af Maay and Af Maxaa and this showcase cultural diversity in very homogeneous society.
Cultural Traditions
The dugsi provides a safe space for children to learn about cultural traditions, customs, and practices. A good example is during community meals in dugsis, students learn different names for foods, the occasions on which they are eaten, the time of day they are typically consumed, and the possible origin stories of various foods. This gives them an opportunity to appreciate their meals and take a break from the standard fast food options they are accustomed to.
Community Building
Dugsi acts as a community center where different families come together to share experiences and build connections. Many of these families have left most of their relatives back home and might live far away from other Somali families. For these families, Dugsi might be the primary place to connect with other families, share information on current community issues, access resources, and discover opportunities. Families with older children who are seeking marriage prospects might also utilize this opportunity to find suitable spouses for their children. This sense of belonging and community helps young Somalis become rooted in their identity and heritage.
Identity and Belonging
The crisis of identity and belonging can only be thoroughly understood by individuals who live and grow up in a society where they are in the minority. Many young people experience identity struggles in environments where they are vilified by the media, schools, and even recreational spaces due to their religion or ethnicity.
The Dugsi provides the safe space where students ask questions about their culture, heritage, interact with people who are just like them and they are never discriminated. This helps them develop a strong of identity and contribute to their society’s developments.
In conclusion, Dugsi’s contribution to the Somali Cultural Continuity in Minnesota is significant. Dugsi serves as a platform that not only assists Somali children in Minnesota but also those in North America, in maintaining a strong connection with their culture and heritage.
Dugsi plays a vital role in ensuring that future generations continue to cherish and hold onto their cultural roots. I urge the leaders in our community including Imams, Dugsi leaders, educators, and businessmen to invest more in our Dugsis. This investment would enable them to offer high-quality programs focused on language and culture.
