University of Hargeisa Concludes the First Training of the Student Peace Initiative (SPI) University of Hargeisa

University of Hargeisa Concludes the First Training of the Student Peace Initiative (SPI)

The University of Hargeisa has officially opened and concluded the first training session of the Student Peace Initiative (SPI), held on 11–12 November 2025. The training forms part of a broader program launched in September 2025, which began with online classes covering mental health, trauma healing, and peacebuilding. The two-day workshop provided the first in-person training, where students participated in lessons on leadership, mental health awareness, and community engagement. Participating students were selected from the College of Medicine and the College of Social Sciences.

The training was facilitated by Dr. Rowda Abdullahi Olad and Dr. Cherie Bridges Patrick from the Maandeeq Mental Health & Peace Institute, in collaboration with the University of Hargeisa. The program was opened and officially closed by Dr. Fuad Obsiye, Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs, who reaffirmed the University’s commitment to nurturing student leaders capable of contributing meaningfully to community development. He highlighted the importance of health—especially mental health—as the most essential component of human well-being.

Also present at the closing ceremony were Dr. Mohamoud Abdulkhader, Principal of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, and Mr. Mukhtar Caabi, Dean of the College of Social Sciences and Humanities.

During the closing session, Dr. Fuad commended the students for their active engagement and expressed the University’s dedication to expanding its collaboration with Maandeeq Mental Health. The students showcased an educational drama focused on mental health, alongside group presentations and discussions on mental health research, community advocacy, and the prevention of psychological challenges—particularly those related to trauma and stress.

As this marks the first training under the Student Peace Initiative (SPI), the University plans to launch additional cohorts in the coming months. Congratulations to all participating students for their dedication to peacebuilding and community awareness.