Mogadishu, Somalia – Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre on Sunday presided over a groundbreaking ceremony for the new headquarters of Somalia’s Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Learning in Mogadishu, marking a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to modernize the education sector.
The new facility, once completed, will centralize the ministry’s operations and provide a modern workspace to better coordinate national education policies. Officials say the project is designed not only to improve institutional capacity but also to strengthen the delivery of education services across the country.
Speaking at the ceremony, Prime Minister Barre said the project represents the government’s commitment to equipping Somali youth with the knowledge and skills needed to compete in the global economy. He stressed that investing in education infrastructure is central to Somalia’s broader development agenda.
“This foundation is more than concrete and steel; it is a foundation for the future of our children and the generations to come,” Barre noted.
The new headquarters will serve as a hub for formulating education policy, advancing cultural initiatives, and managing higher learning programs nationwide. By bringing these critical functions under one roof, the government aims to improve efficiency and ensure that reforms in curriculum, teacher training, and research institutions are implemented more effectively.
Education experts and civil society groups welcomed the project, highlighting that a strong institutional base is key to overcoming decades of underinvestment in Somalia’s schools and universities.
Construction is expected to progress in phases, with the government pledging transparency and accountability throughout the process. The project also aligns with Somalia’s National Development Plan, which prioritizes education as a driver of stability, resilience, and long-term growth.
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, education stakeholders, and community representatives, all of whom hailed the launch as a turning point in rebuilding Somalia’s learning environment after years of conflict and disruption.