SomaliREN CEO Engages in Regional Workshop to Shape ICT Policy Framework for Higher Education in the East African Community
The CEO of SomaliREN, Eng. Ahmed Dahir Siyad, participated in a pivotal workshop organized by the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) in Nairobi, Kenya. The workshop, held from June 10th  to 12th, 2024, aimed to develop a comprehensive ICT Policy Framework for Higher Education within the East African Community (EAC), setting the stage for transformative advancements across the region’s academic landscape.
Eng. Siyad joined fellow leaders from higher education institutions, policymakers, and ICT experts in collaborative discussions focused on leveraging Information and Communication Technology to improve education quality, accessibility, and relevance. This shared vision of integrating ICT solutions promises to overcome traditional barriers, expand learning opportunities, and enhance outcomes for students and educators alike.
A significant highlight of the workshop was the formation of a Forum of National Research and Education Networks (NRENs). Participants worked together to define the forum’s governance structure and voted to establish an interim committee that will guide its initial development. Eng. Siyad’s contributions to these discussions underscored SomaliREN’s commitment to regional cooperation and its leadership role in shaping the future of research and education through innovative technological approaches.
The outcomes of this workshop are set to benefit the entire East African higher education community. By building a cohesive ICT policy framework and fostering stronger collaboration among NRENs, the region is poised to unlock new levels of academic excellence and research innovation. SomaliREN, as an active participant, will continue to play a key role in advancing these initiatives, ensuring that higher education in East Africa thrives in the digital age.
