Haramaya University and University of Hargeisa Forge Strategic Partnership with Memorandum of Understanding
Haramaya University (HU) and the University of Hargeisa (UoH), Somaliland, solidified their commitment to mutual growth and regional development by signing a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on April 16,2025
The agreement paves the way for extensive collaboration across academic, research, and community engagement spheres.
The MoU, signed by Professor Mengistu Urge, Vice President for Academic Affairs and delegate President of Haramaya University, and Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Sulub, President of the University of Hargeisa, outlines key areas of cooperation. These include staff and student exchanges, the sharing of academic information and materials, the development of joint academic programs, collaborative research projects focusing on cross-cutting issues, joint community engagement initiatives, and the organization of joint academic conferences. A core objective stated within the agreement is to enhance employment opportunities through tailored short-term and long-term educational programs.
Professor Mengistu Urge emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership. “Today, we gather not merely to sign a MoU, but to lay the foundation for a meaningful and strategic partnership,” he stated during the signing ceremony. “This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and empowering our institutions to better serve our communities and our region.”
He highlighted the deep ties between the peoples of Ethiopia and Somaliland and expressed confidence that the collaboration would strengthen both institutions and contribute to regional development and stability, particularly in addressing challenges like food insecurity, climate change, public health, and youth employment. “Partnership is in our blood,” Professor Mengistu added, reaffirming HU’s commitment and noting existing collaborations with other Somaliland universities.
Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Sulub, President of the University of Hargeisa, expressed his enthusiasm for the agreement. “We are happy to be at Haramaya University to see the exciting opportunities ahead by strengthening our partnership with Haramaya University,” he remarked.
Dr. Mohamed noted that collaborating with the renowned Haramaya University would significantly benefit UoH’s long-term goals and contribute to meeting the demand for skilled professionals in the region. He affirmed their readiness to move towards implementation swiftly.
Mr. Mohammed Yuya, Coordinator for Haramaya University’s partnership with Somaliland Universities, described the MoU as a “milestone academic partnership agreement” and reiterated HU’s commitment to expanding postgraduate programs and training opportunities in the region. He noted HU’s existing postgraduate collaborations, including PhD and Medical Specialities, with Amoud University and a Master’s program with Edna Adan University in Somaliland.
Dr. Deribachew Bekana, Director of Research Affairs at Haramaya University, specifically highlighted the potential for collaboration on PhD programs as a key component of the MoU. He added that the agreement facilitates joint research and development and the creation of shared medium- and long-term action plans involving community participation.
Following the signing ceremony, the delegation from the University of Hargeisa visited various research facilities, observed ongoing research projects, and toured laboratories at Haramaya University’s Main Campus, Technology Institute (HiT), and Harar Campus.
This MoU marks a significant advancement in Haramaya University’s strategy to foster academic excellence, enhance regional cooperation, and broaden its global engagement. Both universities look forward to a fruitful and lasting collaboration.
By: Shemsedin Mohammed
Photographs: Behaylu Girma
Haramaya University Public & International Relations Directorate