Somalia has welcomed its first group of Sudanese students under a new government-funded scholarship initiative, marking a significant moment of academic solidarity between two countries navigating instability.
The students arrived at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport earlier today, where they were received by the Minister of Education, Culture and Higher Education, Farah Abdulkadir, alongside Sudan’s Ambassador to Somalia. The scholarships include full tuition, accommodation and a monthly stipend — a crucial opportunity for young Sudanese whose education has been disrupted by the civil war back home.
Minister Farah said this first group is only the beginning, with more students expected to arrive in the coming weeks. The initiative builds on decades of educational cooperation between the two nations.
For nearly 39 years, Sudan granted full scholarships to Somali students during some of Somalia’s most challenging periods. “Somalia is now giving back that same support with gratitude,” a Ministry official said.
The program also comes at a decisive moment for Sudan, where conflict between rival forces has displaced millions and shut down universities. By opening its national university to Sudanese students, Somalia is positioning itself as an emerging regional partner willing to share its growing stability.
“Somalia stands with the Sudanese people during this difficult time,” the official added, framing the program as both a humanitarian gesture and a reflection of Somalia’s renewed confidence.