It is becoming a trend for many Somali families to use Skype as an Islamic school for their children. These children are taught by Somali sheikhs back home, in Africa and the Middle East who are radicals in their approach in interpreting the religion. Furthermore, they have contempt and hatred towards non-Muslims and teach these kids to hate non-Muslims and in particular, the “white infidels” who are “at war with Muslims”. Most of these parents are single mothers who are intellectually and socially incapable of challenging what is taught to their children. The sheikhs know their families back home and would accuse them colluding with the “infidels”. Most avoid being labeled as un-Islamic, be bullied, harassed and finally being disowned. Infact, they see the religious guidance of their children by these radical teachers beneficial to their children. They think they will become religious and avoid joining criminal gangs, reject drugs and alcohol consumption and are pleased with the teachings. In the present and recent past, those who were radicalised were older kids in high schools, but the new generation who are radicalised openly in their homes via Skype will bring complex and tough challenges for all of us. It’s time that this emerging threat to be addressed.
Any ideas.
Any ideas.
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