A Remarkable Year for Education in Jubbaland: Girls Break New Ground
On a balmy morning in Kismayo, the air was filled with anticipation as Jubbaland’s Ministry of Education unveiled the results of the 2024–2025 Grade 8 national examinations. With a resounding sense of pride, the spotlight this year shone brightly on young girls who have made significant strides, claiming top spots and carving a niche in academic excellence. The landscape is shifting, and with it comes a new narrative in education.
Celebrating Achievement
The numbers bear testament to the success story unfolding in Jubbaland. A total of 5,053 students from 129 schools participated in these crucial exams. Among them, 2,251 were girls, 2,985 were boys, and the cohort included 11 students with disabilities. A remarkable 99 percent pass rate was achieved, with only 57 students not crossing the finish line this time.
“This year’s results reflect not only the students’ hard work but also the collective effort of educators and the community,” observed Ahmed Noor, a senior education official in Jubbaland. The results highlight the burgeoning potential within girls, with four of them featuring in the coveted top 10 list of performers.
Stories of Success
- Mohamed Hassan Omar Abdi emerged as the top performer, garnering an impressive 88.50 percent. Hailing from Doolow, Gedo, his achievement is a beacon of hard work and dedication.
- Close on his heels was Nimo Mohamed Ashar Abdi, a shining star from Kismayo. Her score of 88.38 percent not only secured her the second position but also the honor of being the highest-performing girl this year.
For Nimo, the numbers on her report card are more than a testament to her intellect—they are a symbol of empowerment. In an emotional moment, she shared, “I want every girl to know that her dreams are valid. Education opens doors, and together, we can walk through them.”
A Broader Perspective
The performance breakdown by subject gave insights into the strongholds and challenges faced by the students. Somali, Technology, and English were the standout areas, whereas Arabic posed a challenge with an average score of 59.84 percent. This invites introspection: what changes are necessary in teaching methodologies to uplift performance in subjects like Arabic?
Regionally, Gedo has demonstrated educational prowess by securing the top two positions, with Lower Jubba, where Kismayo is located, proudly claiming third place. The educational landscape is dynamic and reflects the cultural tapestry of the region—a fusion of tradition and modernity striving towards common goals.
Triumph and the Road Ahead
For the students who did not pass, education officials have been nothing short of supportive. “Exams are just one part of the learning journey,” noted Fatima Ali, a teacher from Kismayo. “Every student has the potential to achieve greatness in their own time.”
The success of Jubbaland’s exams is a microcosm of a larger, global educational trend that emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and gender equality. Across the world, more girls are stepping into classrooms and subsequently into roles of leadership and innovation. How can communities and nations continue to foster educational growth for all? Encouraging diverse participation and equal opportunities appear to be pivotal.
The Human Element
In the grand scheme of data and achievements, it’s the individual stories that resonate the most. A classmate of Nimo’s, Amina, shared a touching anecdote: “We would study under the stars, quizzing each other on English vocabulary. Those nights were filled with both challenges and laughter. We’ve come so far.”
Such shared experiences reflect the spirit of camaraderie that education nurtures. It’s a reminder of the unique journeys each student embarks upon, their struggles, and victories woven into the fabric of their communities.
Final Thoughts
As Jubbaland celebrates, the world watches and takes a cue from their commitment to educational progress. It’s poignant to witness a generation redefining possibilities, particularly young girls who, with support and perseverance, have shattered proverbial glass ceilings.
The pulse of change is palpably universal—an education revolution spurred by past lessons and future aspirations. Where will this collective journey of learning take us next? The answers lie in every child stepping into a classroom, armed with the belief that they can change the world.
By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
