BBC Launches Hausa Learning Show to Help Children in West Africa
The new programme, Dars Hausa, brings English, maths, and science lessons to millions of children who cannot go to school.
BBC World Service has launched a new educational programme called Dars Hausa for children in West Africa. The show covers English, maths, and science lessons in the Hausa language. It is aimed at young people aged 11 to 16 who cannot go to school because of conflict, danger, or displacement. The programme is available on TV, radio, and online platforms.
Nigeria has one of the highest numbers of out-of-school children anywhere in the world. The United Nations estimates that nearly 19 million children in Nigeria are missing out on an education. Armed groups and the threat of kidnapping are among the reasons many children stay away from school. In northern Nigeria, years of violence have forced millions of families from their homes.
For many displaced children, getting to a regular school is nearly impossible. Some have had their schooling cut short entirely. Dars Hausa was created to offer an alternative way to learn. The programme brings lessons directly to children, no matter where they are.
The word 'dars' means 'lesson.' Along with core school subjects, the show also includes content about mental health and stories meant to inspire young viewers. The first series has 12 episodes and launched on November 17. Earlier versions of Dars were created for Afghan children in Pashto and Dari in 2023, and in Arabic in February 2025.
The programme is produced from the BBC Hausa studio in Abuja and is led by Awwal Ahmad. The presenting team includes experienced journalists Aisha Babangida, Ahmad Kabo Idris, and Abdulrahman Salihu. All three have strong backgrounds in broadcast and digital media for Hausa-speaking audiences. Together, they aim to make learning fun and accessible for young viewers.
Dars Hausa airs on BBC News Hausa every Sunday at 5:30 a.m. GMT, with a repeat at 7:30 p.m. GMT. Full episodes can also be found on YouTube, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Listeners can also tune in on medium wave radio and through local FM partner stations. This wide range of platforms means the show can reach children even in areas with limited internet access.
Education is a fundamental right, yet for many children affected by conflict and displacement, access to the classroom remains out of reach.
Comprehension quiz preview
1. What does the word 'dars' mean?
2. According to the article, how many children in Nigeria are estimated to be missing out on education?
3. What does the word 'displaced' mean in this article?