The Puntland government has announced plans to introduce free education in public primary and intermediate schools across the region, a move aimed at easing the financial burden on parents and families struggling with the cost of schooling.
Puntland Interior Minister Abdi Hirsi Ali (Qarjab) revealed the initiative while speaking at the opening session of the Garowe District Council. He said the government is finalizing arrangements to implement the policy in the near future.
“The government is currently working on a plan that will soon be implemented to make public primary and intermediate education free across Puntland,” Minister Qarjab said.
If implemented, the policy would mark a significant step in expanding access to education and reducing out-of-pocket expenses for thousands of families.
Education costs have long been a challenge for many households, particularly in rural and low-income communities where school fees often prevent children from attending or completing their studies.
The announcement comes as Puntland authorities continue efforts to strengthen public services and improve educational opportunities.
Officials say the initiative is intended to increase school enrollment, reduce dropout rates and ensure that more children have access to basic education regardless of their economic background.
The government has not yet released details on the funding mechanism, implementation timeline or the number of schools that will be covered under the program.
However, the proposal is expected to benefit students across Puntland if fully rolled out.
The move aligns with broader efforts in Somalia to improve access to education and support human capital development, with regional administrations increasingly seeking ways to make schooling more affordable for families.