MOGADISHU, Somalia — President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of the Federal Government of Somalia on Sunday inaugurated the 15th Somali Studies International Association (SSIA) Congress in the capital, Mogadishu, marking the first time in 34 years the event has been hosted in the city.
The congress, a significant gathering for intellectual discourse, is co-organized by the Ministry of Education, SSIA, and Somali National University.
Over 300 distinguished participants from around the globe have converged in Mogadishu, including academic researchers, scholars, practitioners, policymakers, members of civil society, private sector representatives, students, and other invited guests. The event, which began on December 15, is scheduled to run through December 18.
The theme for the 2024 congress, “Reconstructing and Developing the Somali Nation,” aims to address the multifaceted challenges of rebuilding Somalia’s social, cultural, and economic fabric in the post-conflict era. Discussions are expected to cover a broad range of topics including education, governance, health, cultural heritage, and economic development.
In his opening speech, President Mohamud emphasized the importance of scholarly collaboration in nation-building, stating, “The knowledge and insights gained here will be instrumental in shaping a prosperous future for Somalia. We must leverage our collective wisdom to navigate the complexities of our nation’s reconstruction.”
The congress includes various sessions, workshops, and panels. Notable among them are discussions on the integration of traditional Somali knowledge with modern practices, strategies for sustainable development, and the role of diaspora communities in national development.
Key speakers include Professor Ahmed Ismail Samatar, a renowned Somali scholar from Macalester College, who will deliver a keynote on “The Role of Education in Nation-Building,” and Dr. Amina Haji Elmi, who will discuss “Women’s Leadership in Somali Reconstruction.”
The event also serves as a platform for networking, where participants can forge new academic and professional partnerships, fostering further collaboration between local and international entities focused on Somali studies.
This congress not only highlights Mogadishu’s return as a center for academic gatherings but also symbolizes a step towards stability and intellectual revival in Somalia, showcasing the country’s ongoing efforts in peacebuilding and development.
