Yusuf Hared

Amoud University (Jaamacadda Camuud)

Following the collapse of the Somali state and the civil strife which followed, most educational facilities were destroyed, damaged or simply abandoned as a result of insecurity. Education ceased to function at all levels causing school-going children and youth throughout Somalia to see their future suddenly blocked by circumstances beyond their control. Thousands of former students whose education was interrupted face unemployment with no possibility of obtaining qualifications to enter the job market. In response to this bleak situation, a group of Somali professionals from within Somaliland and the Diaspora began discussions in 1996 relating to the creation of an institute of higher learning. This culminated in the establishment of Amoud University as a national community-based educational establishment. Amoud University (AU) was formally launched in 1998 and is registered as a non-governmental, non-profit making institution. Amoud is an institute which is deeply rooted in the local community as the primary support for the establishment of Amoud came from the community elders, leaders, business people, concerned citizens and local non-governmental organizations. Moreover, the establishment of Amoud University is seen as symbolic of the transition from an era of war and destruction to an era of peace and development and inspired other Communities not only in Somaliland but also other parts of Somalia to create higher learning institutions along the lines of Amoud University. Amoud University started in 1998 with 66 students in two Faculties (Education and Business Administration), and 3 teachers. The University currently has a student population of 4610(source: Office of The Chief Registrar, Amoud University, Academic Year Period 2017/2018) enrolled in 14 Faculties and/or Schools excluding Department of Freshman Studies, 218 teaching staff and a large library, well stocked with latest books.