‘A historic step toward enhancing academic quality and motivating higher education faculty in Somaliland’
On July 19, 2025, the University of Hargeisa officially unveiled its newly developed Academic Staff Promotion and Development Policy for University Faculty during a well-organized event held in the university’s Research Hall. The ceremony brought together government officials, members of the university’s Board and Senate, representatives from civil society organizations, and academic institutions affiliated with the University.
The event was opened by the Minister of Education of Somaliland, Hon. Ismail Dualleh Yusuf who highlighted the importance of establishing a formal system for categorizing university lecturers based on their academic qualifications, research output, and societal contributions. He noted that this policy gives priority to academic quality and personal growth of faculty members in higher education. A comprehensive presentation on the policy was delivered by the Chair of the Policy Drafting Committee, Mr. Khalid Ahmed. He elaborated on the development process, stages of preparation, and the alignment of the policy with international academic ranking systems. He also noted the formation of a structured committee system to ensure transparency and fairness in its implementation. Mr. Abdisamad Mohamed, a lecturer representing the University of Hargeisa faculty also addressed the gathering, underlining the policy’s significance in recognizing the efforts of dedicated academics who consistently strive for personal and societal impact through knowledge development. The policy, he added, offers a structured platform for formal recognition based on merit.
The Vice Presidents of the University, Dr. Abdirashid Ismail and Dr. Fuad Obsiye, emphasized how the policy supports key university goals such as improving teaching quality, expanding research capacity, increasing community engagement, and encouraging professional growth among faculty members. They also pointed out the policy’s potential to foster healthy academic competition and sustainable development rooted in performance. In a keynote address, the President of the University of Hargeisa, Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Sulub, reaffirmed that the policy aligns with the University’s strategic vision to become a center of excellence in research and education for both the nation and the region. He noted that it will drive advancements in research, improve educational standards, and promote faculty contributions to community development.
The Chairman of the University’s Board of Trustees, Dr. Saad Ali Shire, commended the committee behind the policy’s development, noting that the initiative signals meaningful reform within the University. He further emphasized its alignment with the country’s need for quality systems in higher education. The event was officially concluded by the Chairman of the Somaliland Higher Education Commission, who reiterated the University of Hargeisa’s leadership role in shaping national policies for academic improvement. He remarked that the progress reflected in the policy is clear evidence of the University’s ongoing development.
The launch of the Academic Staff Promotion and Development Policy sets a new benchmark for strengthening higher education in Somaliland. It reflects a formal commitment by the University of Hargeisa to lead with integrity, promoting academic performance, impactful research, and quality public service.
