By Goth Mohamed Goth
Borama – Dr. Hussein Bashir Hirsi, Minister of Health Development of the Republic of Somaliland, today led a high-level delegation, including representatives from UNFPA, on a pivotal working visit to the Awdal region. The visit aimed to bolster healthcare services and foster partnerships with higher education institutions critical to advancing Somaliland’s health sector.
Key Engagements:
1. Meeting with Regional Health Officials: Minister Hirsi and his team held strategic discussions with the Awdal Regional Health Administration, focusing on progress in healthcare delivery, resource allocation, and challenges facing the region.
2. Tour of Amoud University: The delegation conducted an in-depth review of the university’s health-related programs, including its medical and public health departments. Minister Hirsi underscored the need for academia to align curricula with national healthcare priorities.
3. Institute of Health Sciences Visit: At the institute, the Minister engaged directly with students and faculty, emphasizing the importance of practical training and innovation in health education. Discussions centered on modernizing training facilities and addressing gaps in specialized healthcare skills. 
Minister’s Remarks:
Dr. Hirsi praised the Awdal regional leadership and Amoud University for their collaborative spirit, stating, “Our partnership with educational institutions is vital to building a skilled healthcare workforce. We are committed to empowering youth through quality education and ensuring equitable access to healthcare services across Somaliland.” He further highlighted UNFPA’s role in supporting these initiatives, calling for sustained international collaboration.
Focus on Youth and National Development:
The Minister reiterated the government’s dedication to youth empowerment, particularly in the health sector. “Investing in our young professionals today will secure Somaliland’s health tomorrow,” he noted, urging institutions to prioritize research and community-focused training programs.
Next Steps
The Ministry announced plans to allocate additional resources to Awdal’s health infrastructure and expand scholarships for students pursuing medical and public health degrees. A follow-up workshop with UNFPA and regional stakeholders is slated for next month to finalize actionable strategies.