BELGRADE, Serbia (AX) — The Embassy of Somalia in Serbia cheerfully embraced a batch of Somali scholars freshly chosen for the World in Serbia initiative’s scholarship program. This generous program covers an entire spectrum of tuition, lodgings, and a monthly allowance, permitting these ambitious learners to pursue their academic dreams at the esteemed University of Belgrade.
The scholarships reflect Serbia’s commitment to fostering growth in burgeoning regions, with intentions to boost knowledge and expertise in societies throughout Africa, Asia, and Latin America. For Somalia, this represents a considerable shot at empowering students with crucial abilities to help nurture a nation recently emerging from lengthy turmoil.
The acquisition of these scholarships has been the fruit of intense diplomatic labor aimed at strengthening ties between Somalia and Serbia, wherein the Somali Embassy in Belgrade has significantly led the charge. Somalia’s federal authorities expressed deep appreciation for this praiseworthy chance, viewing it as an invaluable investment into the nation’s future prosperity.
“These scholarships are a huge boon for our learners, and we’re forever grateful to the Serbian government for this wonderful chance. Special thanks are due to Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Education for their instrumental support in making this possible,” stated Ambassador Mohamed Abdullahi Ahmed, Somalia’s current envoy in Serbia.
Beyond the realm of scholarships, Serbia has shaped itself into a crucial ally in tackling Somalia’s glaring shortage of aviation experts. Come September 2024, Linx Aviation School in Serbia and the Somali Embassy came to terms on a pact to mold the future cadre of Somali pilots. The endeavor, harmonized with European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) norms, promises a blend of comprehensive theoretical and hands-on flight training across Serbian runways. This initiative will not only equip Somali pilots but also secure instructor accreditation, setting Somalia on a path toward its aviation training independence.
Serbia has additionally been instrumental in elevating Somalia’s security apparatus. In 2023, a troop of 60 Somali elite security officers completed an arduous four-month regimen at the distinguished Belgrade Marshal Josip Broz Tito Special Forces Training School.
Adding to this, Somalia’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) personnel have recently embarked on specialized courses in Serbia. These programs zero in on advanced policing strategies, intelligence work, and the intricacies of tackling multifaceted criminal activities.
“Take full advantage of this wonderful opportunity. The education you gain here is not merely for personal growth but will significantly influence Somalia’s destiny. Remember, your triumphs become the cornerstone of our nation’s advancement,” urged Ambassador Mohamed Abdullahi Ahmed, addressing the enthusiastic students.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
