MOGADISHU — H.E. Farah Sheikh Abdulkadir, Somali Minister of Education, Culture, and Higher Education, has issued urgent directives for the immediate evacuation of lands belonging to the Somali National University, in preparation for a comprehensive plan to redevelop and modernize its educational facilities.
The decision was announced during a groundbreaking ceremony for the modernization project of the university’s buildings, specifically at the “Gaheyr” campus, where His Excellency emphasized that these lands are public property designated to serve national objectives and enhance the educational journey of the community.
In his remarks, the Minister stressed that the public interest necessitates the prompt evacuation of existing structures to clear the path for reconstruction, ensuring that future generations benefit from this prestigious academic landmark, which represents a fundamental pillar of human development.
H.E. Farah Sheikh Abdulkadir explained that the Ministry of Education is committed to reclaiming all educational assets and developing the infrastructure of university institutions to align with modern higher education standards and contribute to a stimulating environment for students and researchers.
For his part, Dr. Mohamed Mahmoud, Rector of the Somali National University, welcomed the launch of the redevelopment project, describing it as a historic and pivotal step in the university’s path toward reclaiming its leading position as a beacon of science and knowledge in the region.
The Rector praised the continuous efforts of the Ministry of Education to strengthen the education sector, commending the firm government commitment to rebuilding and modernizing university facilities according to a comprehensive national vision aimed at advancing higher education in the country.
Dr. Mohamed Mahmoud also noted that the modernization of the “Gaheyr” campus would represent a qualitative leap in the university’s capacity to accommodate new disciplines and develop scientific research, serving the Somali society’s aspirations for sustainable development and economic prosperity.
These government actions fall within a broader national strategy aimed at protecting public property and utilizing it for the public good, with a focus on restoring the prestige of educational institutions and developing their academic and service performance across all regions.
At the conclusion of the event, officials affirmed that the reconstruction project will proceed according to the specified schedule, under close monitoring by relevant authorities to ensure the completion of this national project that reflects the state’s aspirations for a bright and sustainable educational future.
The Somali National University, established in the 1950s, remains the most prominent symbol of higher education in the country and the primary incubator for national talent. By protecting its assets and reconstructing its facilities, the Somali state reaffirms its determination to make education the cornerstone of recovery and nation-building, ensuring that academic institutions remain purely national platforms that serve knowledge and contribute to building the future of rising generations with dignity and pride.
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