WNAM REPORT: The Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Sheikh Noor Muhammad Hassan, paid a visit to the OIC-COMSTECH Secretariat, where he held a productive meeting with H.E. Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of OIC-COMSTECH, along with other senior officials.
At the request of the Embassy of Somalia, COMSTECH agreed to provide travel support for Somali students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies at member institutions of the COMSTECH Consortium of Excellence (CCOE).
The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in science, technology, and innovation, with particular emphasis on key sectors such as healthcare, higher education, and capacity building. Both parties expressed a strong commitment to launching joint initiatives to address critical development challenges facing Somalia and the broader African region.
Ambassador Hassan commended COMSTECH’s efforts to strengthen scientific and technological capacities across OIC member states, particularly through its impactful programs for African nations. He acknowledged the organization’s pivotal role in fostering research collaboration, offering technical assistance, and promoting knowledge exchange.
Prof. Dr. Choudhary reaffirmed COMSTECH’s dedication to supporting Somalia in developing a robust and sustainable science and technology infrastructure. He assured the Ambassador of COMSTECH’s readiness to facilitate training programs, expert exchanges, and collaborative research aligned with Somalia’s national priorities.
Key areas for future collaboration were identified, including the appointment of a focal person by the Somali government, the organization of medical camps led by surgeons and ENT specialists, and the inclusion of the top five Somali universities in the CCOE. Additional proposed initiatives include scholarships and fellowships for Somali students, training for government officials, support in policy formulation, and the provision of internship opportunities for Somali youth.
Both sides agreed to maintain close engagement and work towards formalizing their cooperation through concrete projects and strategic partnerships in the near future.
