PM Barre Says Education Reform Key to Security and Economic Recovery

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has said reforming the country’s education system is critical to national security, economic recovery and long-term stability, as he opened the third National Education Conference in Mogadishu.

In his keynote address, PM Barre described education as the backbone of Somalia’s development, linking improved schooling and teacher quality to job creation, social cohesion and the fight against extremism.

He said the federal government has made education a top priority, pointing to nationwide teacher training programmes, new systems to assess teaching standards and efforts to unify the national curriculum from primary school to higher education.

“These reforms are aimed at producing skilled, ethical and competent teachers, and ensuring Somali students receive quality education that meets international standards,” Hamza said, adding that a strong education system is essential for rebuilding the state after decades of conflict.

The prime minister said recent progress has been underpinned by new laws and policies, including the Education Act and the National Education Policy, which he said provide a foundation for improving governance and accountability in the sector.

Held under the theme “Clear Vision and Quality Development,” the conference brings together government officials, educators and international partners to review progress on education reforms and align priorities with Somalia’s long-term development plans.

The meeting is expected to shape policy and financing decisions in the education sector, as Somalia seeks to expand access to schooling, improve learning outcomes and invest in human capital as part of its broader state-building and economic recovery efforts.