Saturday June 20, 2026
Mogadishu (AX) — Somalia’s 2026 National Secondary School Certificate Examination got underway on Saturday with more than 44,000 students across the country sitting for the high-stakes test, education officials said.
The nationwide exam was administered in 58 districts and 158 examination centers, most of them located in southern and central Somalia. In all, 44,136 students participated.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre officially launched the examinations during a ceremony in Mogadishu.
Hamza said the federal government has poured significant resources into the education sector and is determined to safeguard the prospects of Somali students by strengthening learning at every level.
He added that education sits at the heart of the government’s long-term vision and the National Transformation Plan, which both treat the sector as central to national development.
The prime minister said raising the quality of education and updating the country’s education systems, policies and laws remain among the government’s top priorities.
“Education is not only the path to success; it is also the foundation of modernization and the development of Somalia’s national capacity,” Hamza said. “It is a strong pillar of our faith, frequently emphasized in the Quran and the Sunnah, highlighting the importance of educating our children.”
Hamza urged students sitting this year’s national middle and secondary school examinations to aim high and secure strong results.
He also praised the Federal Ministry of Education, Somali teachers and school administrations for their work in advancing education nationwide.
