Everyday Islam in Kumasi: Devout Lay Men and Women in Daily Life

by Gracia Clark

The wife of an Islamic teacher founded this school in their home, in one of Kumasi's oldest Muslim neighborhoods. A long front room holds beginning, intermediate and advanced groups. It offers Arabic, English, math and sciences classes, and she has hired Muslim and non-Muslim teachers to present the full public school curriculum, although the school gets no government support. The students are mostly married women, who attend part time in between their family and work responsibilities.

A Trader and a Teacher

Date: 2006
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"My uncle saw that I was not interested in marriage, so one day he just called me and said 'I want you to be married to your brother [cousin],' and it worked."

An Arabic Teacher

Date: 2006
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"As I understood the teachings of Islam, I pledged to let my fellow Muslims also know more about Islam and the Koran. That is why I prefer teaching."

The Work of God

Date: 2006
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"Next time that I greet you, with the grace of God you will also be a Muslim."

Abdul Hannan Al Waiz

Date: August 13, 2009
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"I know what is bad and what is good for me."

Ahmed Bashir Baba

Date: August 13, 2009
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"All that we need is unity."

Mohammed Bawa

Date: August 13, 2009
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"First, be honest; second, be patient."

Suleiman Zakaria

Date: August 13, 2009
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"The religion of Islam is totally about peace"

Allabar Women's School

Date: 2006
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Allabar Women's School

The Allabar Women's Islamic School main classroom in front of house.

At the mosque

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A photo album of six images showing the mosque in Kumasi and activities happening at the mosque.