Education is the backbone of any nation’s development, and the quality of higher education directly shapes the future of its people. If universities in Somaliland provide well-rounded, high-quality education across essential fields, the impact will be profound—not just locally, but globally. Skilled and knowledgeable undergraduates become innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders who drive change at every level of society.
After completing undergraduate programs, qualified individuals in Somaliland who wish to continue their education and pursue a Master’s degree in their respective fields will find opportunities both within the country and abroad. I urge Somaliland universities to better prepare for this prospect. While the courses I have listed below cannot all be offered by a single university, as they may not have the capacity to offer every program, it is essential for the University Commission for Higher Education in Somaliland to distribute the subjects appropriately. Alternatively, each university should offer programs that align with its capacity. Maintaining the quality of education is critical, as it directly affects the quality of students produced, who will eventually compete with their peers. Furthermore, it is crucial that students in Somaliland are not only prepared to work within the country but are also equipped to share their knowledge and skills on a global scale.
In today’s interconnected world, universities in Somaliland must prepare students not just for local service but also to compete and contribute on a global scale. Below is a comprehensive list of key subject areas that should be taught—and taught well—in our institutions of higher learning. These disciplines are vital for national growth, economic stability, environmental stewardship, and global relevance.
Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences
These subjects equip students to sustainably manage and protect the very foundation of life: our natural environment.
- Geology
- Forest
- Wildlife
- Rangeland
- Agriculture and Livestock
- Environmental Science
- Climate Science
- Risk Management
- Biodiversity
Engineering and Technological Infrastructure
Engineers are the architects of modern civilization. From roads to clean energy systems, their skills shape daily life.
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronics Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Agricultural Engineering
- Architecture and Urban Planning
- Material Science Engineering
- Water Supply Engineering
- Hydrology and Water Resources Engineering
Computer & Data Sciences
As the digital age accelerates, these skills are no longer optional—they’re essential for competitiveness and innovation.
- Information Technology (IT)
- Computer Engineering
- Software Development
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Data Science
- Information Science
Accounting, Economics, and Management
These fields are crucial for financial stability, entrepreneurship, and economic planning.
- Chartered Accounting
- Management (Supply Chain Management and Financial Management)
- Commerce
- Marketing and Sales
- Economics
- Banking and Finance
- Business Administration
- International Trade
- Logistics and Procurement
- Hospitality and Tourism
Law and sharia
A well-informed legal workforce is the foundation of justice, peace, and democratic society.
- Marine Law
- Customary Law
- Civil Law
- Criminal Law
- International Law
- Environmental Law
- Commercial and Investment Law
- Criminology and Security Studies
- Islamic law
- Comparative Religion
Medical & Health Sciences
A healthy population drives productivity. These fields ensure disease prevention, treatment, and public health advancement.
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Public Health
- Pharmacy
- Nutrition
- Dentistry
- Medical Laboratory
- Midwifery
- Environmental Health
- Anesthesia
Social Sciences & Humanities
These disciplines explore human behavior, society, culture, and communication—essential for empathy, governance, and progress.
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- History
- Psychology
- Political Science
- Philosophy
- Education
- Education Planning and Management
- Governance and Development Studies
- Human Rights
- Filmography
- Photography
- Journalism and Communication
- International Relations and Diplomacy
- Special Needs and Inclusive Education
- Civics
- Sport Science
- Literature (Somali, Arabic, English)
Geography and Earth Sciences
Understanding our planet is key to planning, development, and disaster preparedness.
- Geography and Topography
- Geospatial Science / GIS
Mathematics and Natural Sciences
The core of all scientific advancement lies here—from medical breakthroughs to space exploration.
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Astronomy
- Earth Science
Specialized & Applied Fields
These disciplines prepare professionals to address practical, often urgent needs in society and development.
- Urban Planning
- Statistics
- Agricultural Economics
- Peace and Conflict Studies
- Disaster Risk Management
Vocational and Technical Education
These programs are designed to prepare students for careers in skilled trades by providing hands-on training in various fields. Some of the areas of focus include:
- Carpentry
- Bathroom Upgrades and Remodeling
- Photocopy Machine Repair and Maintenance
- Interior Home Decoration
- Exterior Decoration
- Landscaping
- Electrical Work
- Plumbing
- Welding
- Automotive Technology
- HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
These courses equip students with the practical skills needed to succeed in their chosen trade, offering valuable expertise for a wide range of industries.
In Conclusion
With over 60 key subject areas, this list is not just a curriculum—it is a carefully selected framework based on my assessment of the current and future needs of Somaliland. I identified these subjects by considering both present demands and long-term priorities, and I believe they can serve as a foundation for a national education strategy.
We should not wait until a subject becomes urgently needed before recognizing its importance. Instead, we must proactively work to ensure that these disciplines are taught and developed within Somaliland.
Investing in quality education across these fields will produce competent professionals who are ready to serve both Somaliland and the global community. The return on this investment is immeasurable: a society that is healthier, more innovative, more just, and more resilient.
The time to act is now. Let our universities in Somaliland become the launchpads for national excellence and global influence.
