Abstract:
The twin-discipline of Arabic and Islamic Studies enjoyed patronage across board in areas known as Nigeria in the pre-colonial era. Many Muslims took pride in possessing the knowledge as Arabic was the language of communication, trade and administration just as Islam was the religion of civilisation. This was due to the fact that the products of the twin-discipline were the government officials, school administrators and even judges especially in Northern Nigeria. Today, however, few people take pride in choosing careers in Arabic and Islamic Studies. For one reason, the shaky nature of the job prospects in those disciplines. Although, the socio-economic situation of the country is posing employment challenges to graduates of all disciplines including the professional courses, those of Arabic and Islamic Studies are great as both disciplines now have few people choosing career in them on the fear of what to do with them after graduation. This study, therefore, critically examines the course contents of the twin disciplines as offered in Nigeria and on the basis of that, argues that graduates of Arabic and Islamic Studies are relevant and employable in any organisation, public or private. It posits that graduates of the two disciplines can be employed in the educational, health or financial institutions just as they can provide valuable services in government ministries, agencies, parastatals and the media. Instances of those already working in those organisations and are doing well there were also given. The study then concludes by offering a list of recommendations that can facilitate the employability of graduates of Arabic and Islamic Studies especially in south-western Nigeria where the challenge is greater.