GAROWE (Kaab TV) – For a long time, Somali students studying within the country were primarily taught theoretical subjects that lacked a practical skill-based component.
Even those graduating from universities emerged without the necessary skills to work in fields related to their degrees.
This has impacted many generations, raising concerns about the quality of education and the type of curricula students are exposed to.
However, recently, some educational institutions have begun to reform their curricula to produce students who are better prepared for today’s global society, especially one shaped by technology.
Al-Nawawi School in Garowe, which caters to primary, secondary, and high school levels, has introduced computer labs and computer programming courses where students learn various software applications.
Electricity engineering, CCTV security cameras installation, and graphic designing, including image editing, are among the subjects students are taught there.
Muniiro Abdinur Osmaan, a student currently in Form 3, shared that more and more girls are now part of the cohort learning computer skills.
“I am being trained as a graphic designer. I hope to achieve a lot. It is often said that boys excel in these skills, but I encourage the girls,” she said.
‘Girls Can Reach the Highest Levels’
Umaya Mohamed Ibrahim, another Form 3 student, explained that the modern global environment has influenced students’ direction, pushing them to focus on learning computer skills.
“Initially, we knew very little. Now, we have learned many things. We can print documents, and we have learned different software,” she said.
She also stated that girls can surpass boys if they are properly trained in skills and given equal opportunities.
Mohamud Abdullahi, a teacher at the Al-Nawawi High School, explained that the school decided to introduce computer skills when it became clear how essential these skills were for students’ futures, especially in the face of the challenges Somali students face today.
“As we all know, students have demonstrated success in skills such as electrical wiring, CCTV operation, and working with various software. This is due to the global job market’s current demand and the need for students to improve both their experience and economic situations,” Maxamuud told Kaab TV.
While this initiative has started in just one school, with others possibly following suit, there are still challenges ahead.
The quality of education in Somalia faces significant challenges that hinder students’ ability to acquire essential skills.
Schools operate in overcrowded classrooms, with few skilled teachers capable of teaching the necessary subjects.
Educational resources such as books and equipment, like computers, are often not available to all students.
Girls account for only 17% of those who receive primary education in Somalia, indicating that many girls still lack access to education and remain confined to their homes.