Oslo, Norway – A delegation from the University of Hargeisa (UoH) undertook a study visit to two prominent higher education institutions in Norway, the University of Oslo (UiO) and Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet), as part of the University’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its institutional capacity, modernize its Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure, and enhance university library services.
The visit provided an opportunity for the delegation to explore institutional practices, technological systems, digital resources, and approaches to university service delivery, while gaining valuable insights into how established higher education institutions manage and develop their ICT and library operations.
The University of Hargeisa delegation comprised three officials representing key institutional service areas:
The delegation received a warm welcome from representatives of both universities, who shared their institutional experiences and provided insights into the operations of their respective ICT departments and university libraries.
A major focus of the study visit was to gain a better understanding of the ICT infrastructure, technological systems, and operational practices used by the two universities to support academic and administrative functions.
During their engagements, the delegation explored how ICT departments contribute to the effective delivery of university services, including the management of digital platforms, institutional information systems, technical support, and technology-enabled academic operations.
The discussions and observations provided useful perspectives on the importance of reliable ICT infrastructure, integrated digital services, and effective systems administration in improving institutional efficiency and strengthening the overall university experience.
These insights are particularly relevant to the University of Hargeisa as it continues to develop its digital infrastructure and strengthen the technological systems supporting teaching, learning, research, and administrative operations.
Another central component of the visit was an exploration of the library facilities, information resources, and operational practices at the University of Oslo and Oslo Metropolitan University.
The delegation gained insights into how modern university libraries organize and deliver services to students, academic staff, and researchers, with particular attention to the integration of digital technologies into library operations.
The visit offered valuable exposure to approaches for managing library resources, improving access to academic information, supporting research activities, and enhancing the overall quality of library services.
These experiences will help inform the University of Hargeisa’s ongoing efforts to develop its library facilities, strengthen digital information services, and expand access to academic and research resources.
As universities increasingly rely on digital information systems and online academic resources, the University of Hargeisa recognizes the importance of developing a modern, accessible, and technology-supported library environment that responds to the evolving needs of its academic community.
Beyond the exploration of ICT and library facilities, the study visit provided an opportunity for professional knowledge exchange and institutional learning.
Engagements with the two universities allowed the delegation to gain a broader understanding of how technological innovation, effective service management, and institutional coordination contribute to quality higher education.
The visit also highlighted the importance of continuous professional development and exposure to international practices in supporting institutional improvement.
By learning from the experiences of universities operating in different educational and technological environments, the University of Hargeisa aims to identify relevant approaches that can be adapted to its own institutional context and development priorities.
Such international engagements reflect the University’s commitment to strengthening the competencies of its staff, improving operational efficiency, and encouraging innovation across its academic and administrative service departments.
The study visit aligns with the University of Hargeisa’s broader commitment to institutional modernization, digital transformation, and the continuous improvement of services provided to students, faculty members, researchers, and administrative staff.
Strengthening ICT infrastructure and university library services remains an important component of the University’s efforts to create an enabling environment for quality teaching, learning, research, and institutional management.
The knowledge and experiences gained during the visit are expected to provide useful reference points for future improvements in technological systems, library operations, digital resource management, and institutional service delivery.
The visit also demonstrates the value of international exposure in helping university professionals explore practical solutions, exchange ideas, and contribute to evidence-informed institutional development.
The University of Hargeisa extends its sincere appreciation to the University of Oslo and Oslo Metropolitan University for their warm hospitality, professional engagement, and willingness to share their institutional knowledge and experiences with the visiting delegation.
The University also acknowledges the importance of such study visits in creating opportunities for professional learning, institutional networking, and the exchange of practices among higher education institutions.
The University of Hargeisa remains committed to pursuing opportunities for international engagement, strengthening institutional capacity, and advancing technological and academic support services in line with its mission of delivering quality higher education and contributing to sustainable development.
Through initiatives such as this study visit, the University of Hargeisa continues to demonstrate its commitment to innovation, institutional excellence, and the continuous improvement of its services for the benefit of the wider university community.
