Education and Skill Development
Empowering Somalia Through Education
Education is the foundation of progress and a key pillar of Somali Family Services (SFS)’s mission. Across Somalia, particularly in Puntland, Jubaland, South West State, and Galmudug, SFS is committed to ensuring that children, youth, and adults—especially marginalized groups—have access to quality education, vocational training, and lifelong learning opportunities.
With Somalia facing challenges such as low school enrollment, limited resources, and disparities in education access, SFS works to bridge the gap through innovative programs, community-driven initiatives, and strong partnerships with local and international stakeholders.
Key Educational Initiatives
Explore our comprehensive selection of projects that cater to a variety of needs, ensuring complete educational needs of Somalia.
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Skills Training for Young Puntlanders
Conflict has deprived many Somali youth of a formal education, leaving them without the basic skills needed to secure jobs or provide for themselves. To address this, SFS conducted a skills training program from March to August 2011 for nearly 200 young Puntlanders.
Participants gained valuable skills in areas such as accounting, communications, and technology, along with practical job-search training. By the program’s conclusion:
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Health Education Campaigns
SFS recognizes that unmet health standards can hinder citizens’ ability to engage in community and state-building efforts. To address this, SFS conducts health education campaigns, focusing on raising awareness about healthy lifestyle practices. These campaigns target vulnerable groups, including mothers, children, and youth, to ensure they can lead healthy, productive lives.
Achievements and Focus
Key features of the Education Programs implemented by Somali Family Services (SFS):
Skills Training for Youth
Delivered practical skills training in areas like accounting, communication, and technology to almost 200 young Puntlanders, with over 75% placed in paid jobs or internships.
Educational Opportunities for Nomadic Children
Developed programs to provide accessible education for nomadic children and youth, addressing barriers to traditional schooling.
Puntland Library & Resource Center (PLRC)
Established a vibrant hub for learning and knowledge exchange, distributing over 2 million books in collaboration with Books for Africa to schools and libraries across Somalia.
Health Education Campaigns
Conducted awareness initiatives targeting vulnerable groups like mothers, children, and youth to promote healthy lifestyle practices and improve community health standards.
Focus on Gender Parity
Integrated gender equity into educational initiatives, empowering women and girls to overcome disparities in education and livelihood opportunities.
Alternative Opportunities for At-Risk Youth
Designed educational and job training programs as alternatives to criminal activities such as piracy and extremism, contributing to community stability and personal growth.
Learn More on the Projects Page
Read All About the Projects we Implemented regarding this Programattic Area