Islamabad, The Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Shirwa Abdullahi Ibrahim, accompanied by Prof. Dr. Hassan Osman Gaal, Rector of Somalia National University, and Prof. Dr. Mohamed Mohamud Hassan, Rector of Benadir University, met with Dr. Hathal Homoud Alotaibi, President of the International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI). The meeting focused on strengthening educational ties and enhancing cooperation in higher education between Somalia and Pakistan.

According to International Islamic University Islamabad, the discussion centered on various issues of mutual interest, particularly the promotion of education and the enhancement of educational ties between higher education institutions of the two countries. Both parties agreed on the potential benefits of cooperation from IIUI in various faculties for the improvement of Somali higher educational institutions. There was a consensus on strengthening bilateral educational ties between IIUI and Somali universities.

The Somali Ambassador acknowledged the significant contributions of Prof. Dr. Hathal Homoud Alotaibi, President of IIUI, in the realm of quality education, student-centric approach, and research progress. The Ambassador expressed his appreciation for IIUI’s educational vision and noted that the university is a popular choice among Somali students. He also thanked Dr. Alotaibi for the care extended to Somali students studying at IIUI.

Dr. Alotaibi briefed the Ambassador on IIUI’s history, future plans, and recent achievements. He expressed IIUI’s eagerness to welcome and facilitate more Somali students. Highlighting IIUI’s diverse cultural environment, Dr. Alotaibi shared that the university has seen significant advancements in global rankings and achievements, thanks to recent reforms under its new strategic plan. He also affirmed IIUI’s readiness to discuss the exchange of professionals with Somali universities and assist in connecting with IIUI’s Somali alumni.