Introduction

The Somaliland Journalists Association (SOLJA) organized an awards and encouragement ceremony dedicated to students who recently graduated in Journalism and mass communication and Media Management from Hargeisa University and The Unity University. The event was aimed at motivating the graduates and recognizing their achievements in the field of journalism.

Participants

The ceremony was attended by:

• Representatives from Hargeisa University, Amoud University, Burao University, The Unity University, and the Civil Service Institute (CSI).
• The Deputy Minister of Information, Hon. Muse Askar Guled.
• The Director General of the Ministry of Information.
• Academic staff, senior lecturers, and campus directors from participating universities.

Highlights of the Event

• Keynote Speeches:
  Inspirational and congratulatory speeches were delivered by:
  • Mr. Shaafi Mohamed Ibrahim, Chairman of SOLJA.
  • Hon. Muse Askar Guled, Deputy Minister of Information.
  • Mr. Fu’ad Obsiye, Vice President of Hargeisa University.
  • Dr. Essa Jama, former President of Burao University.
  • Mr. Mahamoud Cadaad, Director of the Civil Service Institute.
  • Academic staff from participating institutions.

Speakers praised the students’ commitment and dedication, encouraging them to play an active role in advancing and modernizing Somaliland’s media sector.

• Future Plans Announced:
  The Chairman of SOLJA revealed that the association plans to expand journalism education this year. As part of this initiative, Journalism Faculties will be launched at Burao University and Amoud University in Borama.
• Student Reflections:
  Some of the graduates addressed the audience, expressing gratitude to SOLJA and their universities for the support and guidance provided throughout their studies.

Awards and Recognition

• Certificates of Honor:
  SOLJA presented honorary certificates to the following institutions for their role in supporting media growth:
  • Hargeisa University
  • The Unity University
  • Civil Service Institute (CSI)
  • Frantz Fanon University
• Special Student Awards:
  • Safa Abdirizak Mohamed Dubad – recognized as the Top Graduate of the Journalism Faculty, Hargeisa University.
  • Mohamed Hussein Ali – honored as the Best Resilience Student, awarded for his perseverance and commitment.

Conclusion

The ceremony successfully recognized the efforts of journalism graduates, highlighted SOLJA’s commitment to enhancing media education, and reinforced collaboration with academic institutions. The event also set the stage for the future expansion of journalism faculties across Somaliland universities.