Friday Nov 22, 2024 {HMC} Somali government leaders celebrated Teachers’ Day in Mogadishu on Tuesday, highlighting progress in education while acknowledging ongoing challenges in rebuilding the sector.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre commended teachers for their critical role in nation-building, emphasizing government initiatives to address a severe teacher shortage and improve school infrastructure.
“Teachers mould the future of our society, while soldiers defend it today,” President Mohamud said, drawing attention to their interconnected contributions to the country’s progress and stability.
The President emphasized that 6,000 educators have been hired as part of a broader plan to employ 10,000 nationwide. While acknowledging the continued need for additional resources, he described these efforts as crucial to strengthening the education system.
Prime Minister Barre underlined the government’s commitment to prioritizing education in conflict-affected regions. Recent initiatives include rebuilding schools and ensuring security for teachers and students in areas previously controlled by militants.
“Through education, teachers are rebuilding our nation and giving hope to future generations,” Barre stated.
The government’s teacher recruitment drives reflect Somalia’s determination to address its acute educator shortage. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Education announced plans to hire 3,000 teachers, receiving over 26,000 applications.
State Minister of Education Nuura Mustaf Mukhtaar stressed the importance of gender inclusivity in recruitment, with 30% of positions reserved for women. “Female educators are essential to fostering inclusive education and inspiring the next generation of Somali girls,” Mukhtaar said.
The initiative builds on a 2023 recruitment drive that added 3,000 teachers to the workforce. A significant increase in the education budget—quadrupled to $34 million—has supported these efforts. However, critics argue that funding remains insufficient, with UNICEF estimating that 3 million Somali children are still out of school due to poverty, insecurity, and inadequate infrastructure.
Despite these advancements, Somalia’s education sector faces persistent challenges. Many schools remain damaged or inaccessible, particularly in rural areas. Prime Minister Barre previously spotlighted the collaboration between security forces and education authorities as critical to reclaiming and rebuilding these facilities.
