Rebuilding the Somalia Education Sector: A Journey from Desolation to Revival
No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it's not the same river and he's not the same man....Heraclitus, c.535 – c.475 BCE.
Perfect storm, a term describing an unusual combination of events that can produce an unusually powerful result, comes to mind when one reflects on what is possible for the Somali education sector with the current leadership. I guess many may ask why I am including Presidential envoy Mohamed Abdi Ware in this team. First, at different times I have been fortunate to have met, worked and got to know the Somali leaders mentioned here and discovered they all have deep interest and passion for education. Then there is another reason, an opportunity so rare I have to go back to Heraclitus, c.535 – c.475 BCE (see note below): no person enters the same river twice. The opportunity to get a second chance to correct any mistakes made, complete unfinished business, and elevate outcomes to the next level, is very rare.
Introduction: Renowned for its rich culture, history, and resilient spirit, Somalia has also been marked by periods of strife and adversity. A key area impacted by these challenges has been the nation's education sector which underwent a severe decline following decades of civil war and political instability. This reflective piece delves into the tumultuous history of Somalia's education system, contrasting its past struggles with its current revival. This story is one of determination, resilience, and an unyielding belief in the transformative power of education.
Guided by leaders such as Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud, Minister of Education Farah Abdulqadir and, though many do not know this, by the relentless efforts of Presidential envoy Mohamed Abdi Ware, the nation has embarked on a crucial mission to rebuild its education sector. This journey is not merely about restoring infrastructure, but also about reviving the Somali spirit of intellectual curiosity, cultural appreciation, and social solidarity.
How do I know this? Because almost on daily basis I talk to and engage with many in the education sector who live in the country. Education has suffered for reasons associated with those who were previously in charge. Although these education ministers did try to illuminate the intricate web of history, politics, religion, and culture that has characterised the sector, they failed to grasp its complexity. Most now agree there is an urgent need for an approach that features a nuanced understanding of the sector and one that focuses on both challenges and future possibilities.
Education and learning: In a world where education is often seen as the cornerstone of social and economic progress, the story of Somalia's educational sector offers insights into the challenges of rebuilding a nation when this important area is neglected. The business community who dominate the education sector has overwhelmed the role of any government leadership or even the role of international collaboration. Only the resilience of the Somali has kept the education sector together at all – an achievement that offers a basis for the hope of a brighter future.
When a New Zealand educator-researcher and I devised an online course in democracy somsog.org for the Somali 275 MPs going into the 2016 election, we had to decide what aspects of past Somali governance to keep and what needed to change.
For this reason we decided to include in the first five lessons of our course both a history of Somalia and a history of democracy. It is impossible to reject past mistakes – or for that matter to change for the better – without knowledge of past models and patterns. As a famous British statesman once said: “The further back we look, the further forward we can see.”
Education is the obvious beginning, but the type and method of delivery have always been problematic – especially in countries recovering from civic collapse. In the late 19th century, many countries influenced by mostly British reformers agreed on the importance of education for all. They passed education acts that declared that education should be ‘compulsory, free, and secular’. The first two must-haves are not a contradiction. These refer to the need for an education that all can enjoy – no matter their income or wealth. They also recognise the necessity for all to be trained in how to be responsible citizens. The third must-have, ‘secular’, came from hard-won recognition that the best civic values come from debate on that neutral common ground where all religious values can safely meet.
In the first decade of its independence Somalia was outstanding in Africa for the high percentage of its population who were engaged in its new-born democracy. In part this has been credited to Italian teachers after WWII who wanted Somalia to know enough to reject the attraction of ‘strong leadership’ that had destroyed their homeland since the 1920s. In part also, the Somali ‘everyman-is-his-own-sultan’ inheritance meant that independent minds wanted to add a national layer decided by ‘one-man-one-vote’ to wise tribal decision-making.
But the key factor in any governance that rejects corruption and faith in ‘big men’ to do the right thing is surely an education in decision-making. And a decision-making that has to gain a majority support that is convinced by policy not personalities.
For Muslim countries, the question of what to keep and what to change is often tied up with religious ideas. But as the hadiths have shown, this is not static. And the circular formula “there can be no virtuous Muslims without an Islamic state, and no Islamic state without virtuous Muslims”, does not mean that therefore civic life is always virtuous. Or beneficial to all.
Democracy is often called the only system that is self-correcting – as long as the great majority of educated people engage in it. The problem of Big Men ruling beyond their use-by date, and of corruption seen as ‘cleverness’ or a necessary ‘oiling of the machinery’, is common to all countries. But good governance requires leaders who rule using consistent standards – and reliable feedback mechanisms that cannot be bribed, silenced, or neglected.
Eight years after we put somsog.org up on the internet it still has not been translated in our own language or Arabic. How inspiring would it be if educated Somalis, and diaspora Somalis, could dedicate themselves, like the successful ‘peace corps’ in some countries, to put aside one or two years to educating educators so that the established science of good governance can be restored to Somalia. And, if necessary, improved upon.
The rivers of traditional knowledge and wisdom can flood, dry up, or change course. Sometimes radically. For good governance, we need to learn from the history of these rivers. Knowledge of reasons for successful systems is called political science – the study of different forms of governance. Education in this science shows us the reasons for others’ success – and helps us avoid others’ mistakes.
The Road Ahead: Despite significant strides made in the past decade, the journey to rebuild Somalia's education sector is far from over. Numerous challenges remain. These include: ensuring equal access to education for girls, improving learning conditions, attracting and retaining qualified teachers, and enhancing education sector financing.
Moreover, the need to ensure that education is also responsive to the demands of the 21st century labour market is of paramount importance. The inclusion of digital literacy, vocational training, and life skills in the curriculum is crucial to ensure Somali youths are equipped with the technical skills needed for the globalised economy.
Looking ahead, it will be essential for Somali leaders, with the support of their international partners, to continue prioritising education as a key pillar of the nation's development strategy. As President Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud, Minister of Education Farah Abdulqadir, and Presidential envoy Mohamed Abdi Ware have demonstrated, dedicated leadership, combined with a clear vision for the future, can drive significant progress. Even in the face of adversity.
Conclusion : In conclusion, the story of Somalia's education sector is one of resilience, renewal, and hope. Despite facing some of the most daunting challenges, the nation is making determined strides towards restoring its education system, driven by a firm belief in the power of education to transform lives and societies. This journey provides valuable lessons on the complexities of educational reform and the power of collective action in overcoming these challenges.
As we reflect on Somalia’s education sector, let us remember that the story is still being written. Each passing day brings new opportunities for progress, new challenges to overcome, and new stories of resilience and determination.
In the words of Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud, "Education is the backbone of a nation." As Somalia continues to rebuild its education sector, this sentiment serves as a guiding principle. For in the quest for national development and peace, education can also be seen as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a more prosperous and peaceful future for Somalia.
The dialogue surrounding this crucial topic should and must continue. Education reform is an ongoing process, one that requires sustained efforts, commitment, and inclusive dialogue. As we look to the future, we envision a Somali education system that is robust, equitable, and capable of fostering the nation's intellectual potential. The path to this vision may be arduous, and the challenges numerous, but a steadfast spirit along with committed leadership, and strong partnerships are visible driving forces towards this brighter educational future.
Epilogue: The Unseen Heroes
As we close this exploration of the rebuilding of Somalia's education sector, it is crucial to acknowledge the unseen heroes in this story. Behind every statistic, every policy reform, and every rebuilt school, are the teachers, parents, community leaders, and of course, the students themselves. Their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to education in the face of adversity are what truly drive change.
Teachers in Somalia, many of whom work in challenging conditions, are shining lights in this beacon of hope. Despite often inadequate resources, they have persisted in their mission to educate the next generation – but they need to be properly paid and resourced to ensure these wellsprings do not dry up. Recruitment and retention rates rely on also making it a financially rewarding and desirable profession for the smartest students.
Parents, too, play a significant role. Despite the myriad of hardships they face, many Somali parents are committed to ensuring their children receive an education. Their sacrifices underline the deep-seated belief in the transformative power of education, not just for their children, but for the future of the nation.
And lastly, the students. Somali children and youth, in their thirst for knowledge and their determination to learn, even in the most challenging conditions, embody the spirit of resilience that is characteristic of the nation. Their dreams and aspirations are the driving force behind the ongoing efforts to rebuild Somalia's education sector.
As we look to the future, the collective efforts of these stakeholders, supported by national leadership and international partnerships, will be the foundation upon which a robust and inclusive education system can be built. It is a path laden with challenges but one Somalia's history shows the nation is capable of undertaking.
Call to Action: The Way Forward
The underpinning theme across this narrative is that education is the bedrock of societal progress. It has the power to instil a sense of national identity, foster social cohesion, and ultimately, drive economic growth. Let this examination of Somalia's educational journey be a catalyst for action. In the words of the Somali Minister of Education, Farah Abdulqadir, "Education is the most effective way to tackle problems that have been decades in the making." Indeed, education is our most potent tool for addressing societal issues, fostering peace, and driving development. It's a story that speaks of resilience, transformation, and progress, and it's a story that each one of us is part of.
My series on books will return soon, in the meantime, enjoy Carl Sagan on books … and if you are having trouble with a book then watch this. Comments and feedback as always are welcome- mi@ayuub.org
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