Somalia Opens New University Year with Focus on Skills, Innovation and Research

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia has opened the 2026/27 university academic year with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud calling for greater investment in education, innovation and skills as the country works to rebuild its economy and institutions.

President Mohamud officially launched the new academic year at the Somali National University in Mogadishu, where he said the country’s long-term development would depend heavily on the quality of its education system and the skills of its young population.

He described universities as a key source of the knowledge and expertise Somalia needs to produce a new generation capable of contributing to the country’s leadership and development.

“Somalia’s progress is closely linked to improving education, expanding knowledge and investing in young people,” the president said.

The launch also saw the introduction of the ABUUR Initiative, which is aimed at encouraging innovation, creativity and entrepreneurial skills among Somali university students.

The government is seeking to place greater emphasis on skills and innovation as Somalia faces the challenge of creating opportunities for a young population while rebuilding institutions after decades of instability.

The president also inaugurated several new facilities at the Somali National University, including buildings for university faculties, a centre for Arab health affairs and an emergency and critical-care centre.

He also laid the foundation stone for a new university guest house and a Centre for Innovation and Research.

The facilities are expected to expand the university’s capacity for higher education, medical training and research.

The investment comes as Somalia seeks to strengthen higher education and develop institutions capable of producing the professionals needed in areas ranging from health and science to technology and public administration.

Improving access to quality higher education is part of a wider effort by the federal government to build human capital and equip young Somalis with the knowledge, skills and creativity needed to contribute to the country’s future.

The 2026/27 academic year will therefore begin with a stronger focus on education not only as a pathway to employment, but also as a foundation for innovation, research and national development.