Among the many immigrant communities that have made their mark abroad, Indians in the United States stand out as a remarkable success story. They are highly visible in fields such as technology, medicine, education, and business. From the boardrooms of Fortune 500 companies to top universities and hospitals, Indians have built a powerful presence in one of the world’s most competitive environments. But what explains this success?
The answer lies in India itself — a country where competition is a defining part of life. With a vast population and limited resources, access to opportunity in India depends almost entirely on merit. Whether it’s gaining admission to a top university, landing a good job, or rising through the ranks of society, success is often earned through intense effort, skill, and perseverance.
From an early age, Indian children are taught the value of hard work. Families place a strong emphasis on academic achievement, encouraging children to aim high and prepare rigorously. Schools and universities operate on competitive entrance exams and merit-based admissions. Government institutions reinforce this through standardized national tests and policies that reward excellence. For many Indians, there is no option but to compete — and to compete seriously — in order to succeed.
This upbringing produces individuals who are not only academically capable but mentally conditioned to thrive in high-pressure, performance-driven environments. When these individuals move to the United States, they often find that the systems there — though still competitive — offer more opportunities, fewer barriers, and a more predictable path to success. Equipped with a strong work ethic and resilience, they excel.
Another crucial factor is the role of the family. In Indian culture, education is not just a personal responsibility but a collective family goal. Parents often make significant sacrifices to ensure their children receive quality education. This strong familial support creates a foundation for long-term success.
Government policy in India has also played a role. Though the system is far from perfect, successive governments have prioritized education, science, and technology as national priorities. Regulatory frameworks and institutional policies have aimed to equip young people with modern skills and knowledge to compete — not just locally, but globally.
So what lessons can we in Somaliland draw from this?
If we want to see more Somalis succeed on the world stage, we must begin by reshaping our own institutions and mindset. Are we building a merit-based system? Are we fostering a culture that rewards discipline and excellence? Do our families and schools nurture ambition and hard work, or do they allow complacency to take root?
Success does not happen by chance — it is the product of deliberate effort, structured systems, and a national culture that values performance. The Indian example shows that with the right foundation, even individuals from challenging backgrounds can rise to global prominence.
It is time we invested in building a culture of merit, competition, and accountability — not out of rivalry, but out of a desire to lift our people and our nation. Until we do, we risk remaining on the margins of global progress.
By Abdirahman Abdilahi
