University Aligns Student Research with NDP III to Support National Development Priorities
Mohamoud Walaaleye
The University of Hargeisa has strengthened its role in driving innovation and national development by transforming student graduation projects into research-based studies aligned with Somaliland’s Third National Development Plan (NDP III), while students from the Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science showcased 52 innovative research projects during the university’s Research Week 2026.
The exhibition, held on the second day of Research Week, highlighted students’ efforts to apply academic knowledge to real-world challenges through technology, creativity, and practical solutions designed to address community needs.
The displayed projects demonstrated the growing capacity of university students to develop research-driven solutions in areas that support social progress, technological advancement, and national development. The initiative reflects the university’s broader commitment to building a culture of research and innovation within higher education.
As part of its academic reform, the University of Hargeisa has replaced traditional graduation projects with research studies focused on priority areas identified under Somaliland’s NDP III. The new approach aims to ensure that graduating students produce research that contributes directly to solving societal, economic, and institutional challenges.
Speaking about the reform, the University’s Vice President for Administration and Development, Dr. Abdirashid Ismail Mohamed, said the initiative demonstrates the institution’s belief that research is the foundation of sustainable development.
“Development is built on research,” Dr. Abdirashid said, explaining that the university has modernized its graduation program to encourage students to conduct studies that respond to national priorities and generate meaningful solutions for communities.
He praised the graduating students for their innovative work, noting that the new research-based system gives them an opportunity to move beyond academic requirements and ensure their findings contribute to Somaliland’s development efforts.
University officials said aligning student research with NDP III will strengthen the connection between academia and national policymaking by encouraging evidence-based studies in key development sectors. They added that the approach will help nurture critical thinking, innovation, and problem-solving skills among future graduates.
The University of Hargeisa emphasized that Research Week provides students with a platform to present their work, exchange knowledge, and demonstrate how academic research can be transformed into practical initiatives that benefit society.
Through these reforms and research initiatives, the university aims to position higher education as a key driver of sustainable development, ensuring that student research contributes not only to graduation achievements but also to the long-term progress and advancement of Somaliland communities.