In a historic step toward building a resilient and sustainable future, the Republic of Somaliland officially launched the “Somaliland Climate Smart Education System Initiative 2025” Wednesday 18th June. The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Education and Science, aims to transform the nation’s education system to address the challenges posed by climate change while ensuring equitable access to quality education.
The launch event, held in Hargeisa, was led by Minister of Education Prof. Ismail Ducale Yusuf, who emphasized the initiative’s role in fostering a climate-adaptive education system. “This is a pivotal moment for Somaliland’s future. By integrating climate resilience into our schools, we are equipping our children with the knowledge and infrastructure to thrive in a changing world,” he said.
The initiative focuses on three key pillars: developing climate-resilient school infrastructure, introducing environmental and climate-focused curricula, and enhancing community awareness of sustainable education practices. It aims to upgrade schools in climate-vulnerable areas to withstand extreme weather events like floods, droughts, and strong winds, ensuring uninterrupted learning. New curricula will teach students about environmental science, climate change, and sustainable practices, preparing them to be proactive stewards of their environment.
The meeting saw participation from key stakeholders, including the Director General of the Ministry, Abdirahman Hussein Hirsi, and representatives from Save the Children, the Ministry of National Planning, the Ministry of Public Works and Housing, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, and the National Food Reserve. Collaborative efforts will focus on integrating green technologies, such as solar-powered classrooms and rainwater harvesting systems, into schools.
“This initiative is not just about education; it’s about securing a sustainable future for Somaliland,” said Amin Ahmed Ahmed, Director of the Planning and Policy Department. “By working with our partners, we are building schools that can endure climate challenges and inspire a generation to act responsibly toward our planet.”
The “Climate Smart Education System Initiative 2025” aligns with global frameworks like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). It is expected to serve as a model for other nations in the Horn of Africa facing similar climate challenges.
The Somaliland government has committed to a multi-year plan to implement the initiative, with initial projects rolling out in vulnerable regions by early 2026. The Ministry of Education calls on international partners and donors to support this transformative effort to ensure every child in Somaliland has access to a safe, quality, and climate-resilient education.m