Jowhar, Somalia – The Intergovernmental Education Forum Committee officially commenced its meeting in Jowhar today, with HirShabelle State President Ali Abdullahi Guudlaawe presiding over the launch.
The high-level gathering brought together senior officials from both federal and state governments to deliberate on strengthening Somalia’s education system. Federal Minister of Education, Culture and Higher Education, Faarax Sheikh Abdulkadir, attended the session, joined by his counterparts from Southwest, HirShabelle, Galmudug, and Jubbaland.
Also present was the Deputy Governor of Middle Shabelle in charge of Social Affairs.
In his opening remarks, President Guudlaawe emphasized the importance of education in state-building and peacebuilding, urging stakeholders to focus on improving access, quality, and inclusivity across Somalia.
He noted that the forum represents “a vital platform for collaboration between federal and state authorities to shape a unified vision for the country’s education sector.”
Abdulkadir echoed these sentiments, highlighting the Federal Government’s commitment to harmonizing curricula, expanding opportunities for higher education, and enhancing teacher training.
He called on states to play an active role in addressing challenges such as limited resources, infrastructure gaps, and the impacts of insecurity on schools.
The forum, scheduled to run until 26 August 2025, will feature panel discussions, technical presentations, and working sessions aimed at producing actionable recommendations for policy and program coordination.
Officials are expected to deliberate on issues such as standardized examinations, curriculum development, vocational training, and strategies to ensure that children in rural and conflict-affected areas are not left behind.
Education stakeholders say the forum is particularly timely, as Somalia continues to recover from decades of conflict while grappling with high levels of illiteracy and limited access to schooling.
By bringing together multiple layers of governance, the meeting aims to pave the way for long-term reforms that can improve literacy rates and equip Somali youth with skills for future employment.
The Intergovernmental Education Forum Committee has previously met in Mogadishu and other regional capitals, but this year’s session in Jowhar is seen as a significant step toward empowering federal member states to take greater ownership in shaping Somalia’s education landscape.
The outcomes of the forum are expected to be presented in a joint communiqué at the conclusion of the meeting on 26 August.
