Garowe, Puntland, Somalia – February 26, 2025
The grandeur of Martisoor Hotel in Garowe served as a fitting backdrop for a momentous occasion yesterday: the Graduation Ceremony of the Master’s Degree program offered by East Africa University (EAU) in collaboration with Lincoln College Malaysia. The event, which celebrated the achievements of postgraduate scholars, marked not only a triumph for the graduates but also a testament to the enduring vision of academic excellence and cross-border partnership in Somalia’s Puntland State.
A Celebration of Achievement
The ceremony honored the dedication of students who successfully completed their advanced studies under the joint program, a pioneering initiative between EAU and Lincoln College Malaysia. The partnership underscores the growing emphasis on international collaboration in higher education, equipping Somali students with globally recognized qualifications while addressing local developmental needs. Attendees included faculty members, government officials, and proud families, all united in celebrating the graduates’ hard-earned success.
In their address, representatives from both institutions highlighted the transformative power of education. “Today, we witness the fruits of perseverance and partnership,” remarked a Lincoln College delegate in a video recording. “These graduates are now ambassadors of knowledge, ready to contribute to Somalia’s progress and beyond.”
A Nostalgic Reflection: Founding East Africa University
For many present, the event carried profound historical resonance. Among the attendees was Ismail H Warsame, former Chief of Staff to the Puntland State Presidency, who shared reflections on EAU’s humble beginnings nearly 25 years ago.
“In the late 1990s, the founders of East Africa University—led by the late President Yusuf AbdulAsis—approached the Puntland government with a bold vision: to establish the region’s first recognized university, the East Africa University (EAU). At the time, their proposal lacked detailed curricula and resources. As Chief of Staff, I advised them to return with a robust academic framework aligned with national standards.
This pivotal moment in EAU’s history became a catalyst for growth. After months of meticulous planning, the university secured official recognition via a Presidential Decree in 1999–2000. The founders’ tenacity was extraordinary. They transformed limited means into a lasting institution, laying the groundwork for what we celebrated yesterday.
From Vision to Reality: EAU’s Journey
What began as a modest endeavor has since flourished into a beacon of higher education in Somalia. EAU now offers diverse programs, from healthcare and engineering to social sciences, and has forged partnerships with global institutions like Lincoln College Malaysia. These collaborations have elevated the quality of education, enabling Somali students to access world-class resources without leaving their homeland.
The university’s evolution mirrors Puntland’s broader strides in rebuilding its education sector post-conflict. By prioritizing accreditation and innovation, EAU has produced generations of professionals who drive progress in both public and private spheres.
Looking Ahead: Aspirations for the Future
As yesterday’s graduates embark on new journeys, the ceremony served as a reminder of education’s role in societal transformation. Keynote speakers urged the cohort to leverage their skills to tackle regional challenges, from healthcare gaps to economic development.
For Ismail H Warsame, the event was deeply personal. “Seeing EAU’s graduates today, I am reminded of the late Yusuf AbdulAsis and his unwavering belief in education. His dream lives on in these scholars.”
The collaboration with Lincoln College Malaysia further signals a promising future. Such partnerships not only enhance academic rigor but also foster cultural exchange, positioning Somali students as global citizens.
Conclusion
The 2024 graduation was more than a ceremonial milestone—it was a celebration of resilience, collaboration, and the unyielding pursuit of knowledge. As East Africa University continues to expand its horizons, its story stands as an inspiration: a testament to how vision, coupled with perseverance, can ignite lasting change.
To the graduates, we extend our utmost congratulations. May your achievements today become the foundation for a brighter tomorrow in Somalia and beyond.
Ismail H Warsame, reflecting on a quarter-century of progress in Puntland’s educational landscape.
Published in https://ismailwarsame.blog/WDM, February 26, 2025.
Warsame Policy & Media Network (WAPMEN) 