Somali Prime Minister highlights role of higher education in nation-building.

The Prime Minister of the Federal Government of Somalia,  Hamza Abdi Barre, on Saturday attended the graduation ceremony of Master’s and PhD graduates at the University for Peace (UPEACE), celebrating the achievements of Somali scholars who have successfully completed advanced studies in their respective fields.

During the ceremony, Prime Minister Hamza congratulated the graduates for their dedication and perseverance, noting that their hard work and commitment to education reflect the promise of Somalia’s future. He highlighted the critical role that their acquired knowledge and expertise play in advancing peace, governance, and sustainable development in the country.

“Today marks a significant milestone in higher education in Somalia. To see Somali students earning Master’s and PhD degrees within the country is a proud moment for the nation. The graduates we celebrate today are the leaders who will drive the innovation, reform, and positive change our country needs,” said Prime Minister Hamza.

He also commended the leadership of the University for Peace for its contribution to improving the quality of higher education in Somalia. The Prime Minister stressed that the Federal Government places special emphasis on developing human capital as a central pillar of the National Transformation Plan (NTP 2025–2029), which aims to strengthen governance, enhance education, and overcome obstacles to stability and societal progress.

Prime Minister Hamza urged the graduates to use the knowledge and skills they have acquired to serve their communities and the nation. He emphasized that their education should translate into active participation in initiatives that support national stabilization, institution-building, and long-term development.

“The government views education as a pathway to progress. Universities like UPEACE play a key role in empowering our youth with the skills and expertise necessary to build a strong and prosperous Somalia,” he added.

The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, academics, and students, highlighting the growing importance of higher education in supporting Somalia’s vision for peace, development, and innovation.

Prime Minister Hamza’s message underlined the critical link between education, governance, and national development, calling on Somalia’s new generation of scholars to lead by example and contribute meaningfully to the country’s reconstruction and advancement.