Somalia and Thailand Discuss Education, Fisheries Cooperation in High-Level Meeting

MOGADISHU – The Minister of Education, Culture and Higher Education of the Federal Government of Somalia, Farah Sheikh Abdulkadir, currently on an official visit to Thailand, has held a meeting with the Director of the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA), Chulvat Narinthrangura, and other development officials to discuss expanding bilateral cooperation in education, human capital development, technical skills training, and fisheries.

Minister Abdulkadir expressed his gratitude to the Thai government for its ongoing support, particularly in providing educational opportunities for Somali students. Discussions focused on ways to strengthen development cooperation between the two countries, with a particular emphasis on human resource development, vocational training, and capacity building in the fisheries sector.

The Minister has previously outlined the government’s plans to improve the quality of education nationwide, with a focus on ensuring that Somalis receive the highest standards of learning. The meeting with TICA is part of broader efforts to secure international support for these goals.

Human Capital Development and Technical Skills

The talks between Minister Abdulkadir and the TICA Director centred on the importance of building human capital through education and technical training. Somalia has been working to expand its education sector and improve access to quality learning, particularly in technical and vocational fields that can equip young Somalis with skills for employment.

The Minister has previously participated in international education forums, highlighting the challenges Somalia faces in areas such as teacher training, digital learning, and inclusive education, as well as the country’s commitment to overcoming them.

Fisheries Sector Cooperation

A key area of discussion was cooperation in the fisheries sector, which is a vital component of Somalia’s blue economy. With the longest coastline in mainland Africa, Somalia has significant potential for sustainable fisheries development. Thailand’s expertise in fisheries management and aquaculture could provide valuable technical support for Somalia’s efforts to develop this sector.

Somalia and Thailand have previously collaborated on initiatives such as promoting Halal science for entrepreneurs in Nairobi, which equipped Somali and Kenyan entrepreneurs with practical knowledge in a growing field that underpins global food and pharmaceutical industries.

International Partnerships in Education

The meeting reflects Somalia’s ongoing efforts to engage with international partners to strengthen its education system. The Minister has previously signed education agreements with Kenya, and has held discussions with UK Ambassador Mike Nithavrianakis on the importance of international collaboration in advancing educational development. The government has also been working to increase investment in the education sector, successfully raising the education budget from 3% to nearly 10% in recent years.

The Minister has attended global education conferences to discuss safeguarding educational institutions and ensuring safe learning environments in conflict-affected areas, reflecting Somalia’s commitment to protecting education from attack.

Way Forward

The meeting between Minister Abdulkadir and the TICA Director marks an important step in deepening bilateral cooperation between Somalia and Thailand. As Somalia continues to rebuild its education sector and develop its human capital, partnerships with countries like Thailand will be essential for providing Somali students and professionals with the skills and opportunities they need to contribute to the country’s development.