In brief
- Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre laid the foundation stone for a new science and technology centre at SIMAD University in Mogadishu on Wednesday, according to Shabelle Media Network via AllAfrica.
- The centre is described as aimed at advancing higher education, research and students' technical skills.
- The reports do not state a project value, funder, contractor, start date, completion date, design, size or quantities.
Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre laid the foundation stone for a new science and technology centre at SIMAD University in Mogadishu, according to Shabelle Media Network (Mogadishu) via AllAfrica.
The centre is described by the report as aimed at advancing higher education, research and students' technical skills. The ceremony took place on a Wednesday; AllAfrica's page metadata gives conflicting dates of 15 and 16 October 2026, and the article text does not state the calendar date of the event.
Speaking at a brief ceremony after the groundbreaking, Barre said universities and educational institutions were key drivers of social change and development, describing knowledge as a cornerstone of the country's future. He stressed the importance of establishing modern educational facilities that equip students with practical skills and knowledge while contributing to Somalia's economic growth and productivity, as reported by Shabelle/AllAfrica.
Barre praised SIMAD University's progress and its efforts to expand access to education. He said the government's National Transformation Plan included developing quality universities and schools capable of producing graduates whose skills matched the needs of society and the labour market.
"I commend SIMAD University for its continued efforts to advance education, particularly in science, technology, research and the development of modern knowledge and skills," Barre said, directly quoted by Shabelle/AllAfrica.
The Prime Minister said Somali youth needed institutions where they could develop their scientific knowledge and creativity, welcoming the university's initiative to establish the new centre. He added that he hoped the university would further strengthen links between academic learning and the needs of society, helping to produce a generation of skilled and innovative Somalis who could contribute to the country's future development.
According to the AllAfrica/Shabelle background statement, Somalia has been working to strengthen its education sector as it seeks to expand opportunities for young people and develop the skills needed to support economic recovery and growth.
The reports do not state a project value, contract value, total cost, funder, contractor, consultant, client, start date, completion date, design, size or quantities for the centre. No procurement method, tender or contract terms are reported. The original Shabelle Media Network article is referenced but not included in the evidence.
Frequently asked questions
What specific facilities does the new centre include?
The reports do not state the specific facilities, design, size, capacity or quantities of the centre.
Who is financing or constructing the project?
No funder, contractor, consultant or developer is named in the reports.
What is the expected timeline for completion?
No start date, construction schedule or completion date is stated.