Assessment Report – The State of ICT In Somali Universities and Research Institutions: Current Realities and Future Possibilities
We are pleased to present a comprehensive report titled “The State of ICT in Somali Universities and Research Institutions: Current Realities and Future Possibilities.” This in-depth assessment, conducted across 28 member institutions, provides valuable insights into the state of ICT infrastructure and utilization. It highlights notable disparities, uncovering both challenges to address and opportunities for transformative growth.
Challenges identified through the survey include:
- Inadequate Internet Speeds: Affecting 46.43% of institutions, slow internet remains a critical barrier, restricting access to digital content and slowing research activities.Insufficient ICT Support Structures: The lack of dedicated ICT offices in approximately 28.57% of institutions hinders effective management and prompt resolution of ICT issues.Limited Access to Resources: The majority of institutions (64.29%) report a lack of access to essential paid data management tools, severely impacting their research capabilities and innovation potential.
Strategic Recommendations for Advancement
To address these challenges and enhance the ICT landscape, we at SomaliREN propose several targeted recommendations:
- Strengthen ICT Infrastructure: We are committed to upgrading internet connectivity and enhancing data center facilities to provide a reliable and robust backbone for ICT operations.
- Expand Training and Development: Recognizing the critical role of human capital, we advocate for comprehensive training programs to enhance ICT literacy across faculties and administrative bodies, ensuring that all stakeholders are proficient in utilizing contemporary ICT resources.
- Enhance Access to Digital and Research Tools: To close the gap in resource utilization, we aim to expand access to essential digital resources and research tools, facilitating a richer educational experience and more robust research outputs.
Call to Action
As we publish these findings and insights, we call upon all stakeholders within the SomaliREN community and beyond to collaborate and invest in these strategic areas. It is through our collective effort that we can transform the landscape of higher education and research in Somalia, making it more competitive, innovative, and aligned with global standards.
The path forward is clear, and together, we can achieve a digitally empowered academic landscape that enhances the quality of education and research in Somalia and contributes meaningfully to our socio-economic development and integration into the global knowledge economy.
For a detailed roadmap and further insights, access the full report here. Let’s work together to realize the potential of ICT in advancing education and research in Somalia.
