The University of Hargeisa has launched a two-day training program for the Somaliland Custodial Corps, aimed at strengthening the protection of human rights and improving the treatment of citizens and refugees held in the country’s correctional facilities. The training focuses on enhancing knowledge related to refugee law and the safeguarding of the rights of both citizens and refugees in detention centers.
This program was organized by the Human Rights Department of the University of Hargeisa—one of the largest departments in the institution that provides vital community services, including free legal aid for vulnerable groups across Somaliland.
The training, which will continue for two days, brings together one hundred officers and soldiers from the Custodial Corps. Its primary objective is to enhance participants’ understanding, skills, and awareness regarding human rights protection and humane treatment of detainees in correctional facilities.
The opening ceremony was officially inaugurated by Hon. Yoonis Ahmed Yoonis, the Minister of Justice of the Republic of Somaliland. He emphasized the importance of understanding refugee law and protecting the rights of detainees, highlighting the critical role played by the Ministry of Justice in promoting these principles. The Minister urged participants to make the most of this valuable learning opportunity.
Dr. Khalid Ahmed Abdi, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and International Relations at the University of Hargeisa, spoke about the University’s vital role in building the capacity of national institutions through knowledge transfer and training programs that enhance public service delivery. He encouraged participants to use the training to strengthen their professional skills and expertise.
Brigadier General Ahmed Awale Yusuf (Libaax), Commander of the Custodial Corps, also addressed the event, commending the officers attending and stressing that understanding refugee law and detainee rights is a cornerstone of the Corps’ duties and responsibilities.
Additionally, Lawyer Khadar Mohamed Ahmed, Head of the Human Rights Department at the University of Hargeisa and lead facilitator of the training, explained the course objectives and outcomes.
Representatives from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) also attended the training, reaffirming their long-term partnership with the University. Ms. Meldred, one of the UNHCR officials based in Somaliland, expressed appreciation for the collaboration and highlighted the importance of continued joint initiatives to enhance human rights awareness.
Throughout the two-day program, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of refugee law, international conventions on the rights of detainees, and national legal frameworks such as the Somaliland Constitution, the Prison Law, and the National Refugee Protection Act.
This training is part of the University of Hargeisa’s broader effort to strengthen the academic and professional capacity of national institutions, supported by long-standing partnerships with organizations such as UNHCR, which continues to provide financial and technical assistance. The University of Hargeisa extends its sincere appreciation to UNHCR for its ongoing collaboration and contribution to advancing education, justice, and human rights in Somaliland.
