Over 300 Somali Students Graduate from Turkish Universities in Ankara Ceremony

ANKARA – The First Counsellor of the Somali Embassy in Turkey, Ismail Ibrahim Aden, accompanied by Member of Parliament Mahad Awad, Ms. Aisha Mahmoud (the Embassy’s Education Attaché), and Sheikh Mohamed Idris, attended a graduation ceremony honouring over 300 Somali students who successfully completed their studies at various universities in Ankara for the 2025–2026 academic year.

The ceremony, held at Ostim Technical University, celebrated the academic achievements of Somali graduates in fields such as engineering, economics, international relations, and technology. The event was marked by emotional scenes, cultural displays, and a palpable sense of optimism for the future.

Officials extended their congratulations to the graduates, urging them to apply their knowledge and skills to contribute to Somalia’s development. “You have made your families and your country proud. Somalia needs educated youth like you to lead the way in rebuilding our nation and representing it with honour on the international stage,” the Education Attaché said at a similar ceremony. The officials also expressed gratitude to the Turkish government and Turkish universities for their continued support of Somali students.

A Growing Educational Partnership

The graduation ceremony highlights the deepening educational ties between Somalia and Turkey. Ostim Technical University, known for its focus on innovation and industry partnerships, has become a popular destination for Somali students pursuing higher education under various scholarship and bilateral education programmes.

Somalia’s Minister of Education, Farah Sheikh Abdulkadir, has previously hosted Turkish Ambassador Alper Aktaş to explore ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in education, underscoring Türkiye’s longstanding commitment as a trusted partner in enhancing Somalia’s education sector.

Discussions have also focused on the expansion of scholarship programmes for Somali students pursuing religious and higher education in Türkiye, aiming to foster a new generation of well-trained Somali scholars who can contribute to national development.

Turkish Investment in Somalia’s Education Sector

Turkey’s commitment to Somalia’s education sector extends beyond scholarships. The Turkish Maarif Foundation School in Mogadishu has been accredited to administer Oxford International examinations, opening international academic pathways for Somali students and symbolising a gateway to universities and opportunities that were previously out of reach. The school has grown into one of the country’s most respected learning institutions, reflecting a shared commitment between Somalia and Türkiye to invest in education as a pillar of national reconstruction.

Encouraging Return and National Development

Somali officials have consistently encouraged graduates to return home and contribute to the nation’s rebuilding efforts. Minister of Foreign Affairs Ahmed Fiqi previously urged Somali students in Turkey to return home and take part in Somalia’s renaissance, focusing on the country’s future and potential.

Way Forward

The graduation of over 300 Somali students from Turkish universities represents a significant milestone in Somalia’s human capital development. As Somalia continues to rebuild its institutions and economy, the knowledge and skills acquired by these graduates will be essential to the country’s progress. The enduring educational partnership between Somalia and Turkey, built on scholarships, institutional collaboration, and investment in local education, continues to play a pivotal role in empowering Somali youth and contributing to the country’s overall development.