Emotional Intelligence in Somali Classrooms: A New Dawn for Education
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In the heart of Somalia, amid dust-laden streets and vibrant markets, a revolution is quietly brewing in classrooms. Picture this: a cozy alcove at Daryeel Academy in Dhusamareeb, where a group of six-year-olds gathers eagerly on a colorful mat. Their teacher, with a warm smile, opens a picture book that features a child sitting alone. “What do you think this child is feeling?” she gently prompts, pulling the students into a reflective discussion.
This seemingly simple question marks an essential shift in Somalia’s educational landscape. It reflects the growing recognition of emotional intelligence as a vital component of learning — one that is pivotal for a nation striving to heal from decades of turmoil.
A Historic Shift in Education
The initiative aimed at fostering emotional literacy is part of a pilot program that launched this year. The program is designed not just to teach children how to read and write but to equip them with emotional tools critical for navigating a life scarred by conflict.
“The students absolutely love it,” shares Nusro Mohamed Hersi, a lead teacher at the academy, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. “Their engagement in these lessons is unmatched — we’ve noticed significant changes in their behavior already.”
What makes this initiative particularly compelling is its collaborative spirit. The program is backed by the Galmudug state government and the UK-based nonprofit ThinkEqual, which brings tailored Somali-language materials that focus on empathy, resilience, and crucial social skills.
The Psychological Landscape of Somalia
For those of us who know the stories of this nation, the backdrop is heart-wrenching yet essential to understand. Somalia has endured a rollercoaster of conflict since the collapse of its central government in 1991. The echoes of violence and the shadows of displacement loom large, especially over the youth.
According to a 2024 study by the Peace Research Institute Oslo, more than 473 million children worldwide grow up in active conflict zones — nearly one in six. Somalia remains among the most affected. “These children grow up navigating a landscape marked by death and destruction,” comments Siri Aas Rustad, the research director at the institute. “The lack of mental health services compounds the trauma they face.”
A Beacon of Hope in Education
The introduction of social and emotional learning (SEL) at Daryeel Academy signifies more than just a pedagogical change; it embodies hope for a brighter future. By engaging with storybooks and interactive activities, children explore their emotions — fear, anger, joy — and learn how to de-escalate conflicts and support their peers.
“I had one student who would often lash out and isolate himself from the group,” says teacher Hersi, recounting a poignant transformation. “Now he’s more connected, calmer, and involved with his classmates. These lessons are truly making a difference.”
Lessons from Around the World
This program mirrors similar efforts globally. In Colombia, schools devastated by civil wars have found that SEL greatly enhances student behavior and community engagement. Dr. Robin Stern, co-founder of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, emphasized that such programs aren’t mere soft skills; they “provide the building blocks of peace.”
“When children learn to identify and manage their emotions, it not only reduces aggression but also rebuilds trust in fractured communities,” she explains, shedding light on the ripple effect such education can have.
Challenges and Triumphs
While the program has proven impactful, it wasn’t without its challenges. Some parents initially viewed emotional education as unnecessary or foreign. “At first, some families were skeptical,” reveals Mohamed Dhoore, Galmudug’s Minister of Education. “But when they began to notice the positive changes in their children, their perspective shifted dramatically.”
Dhoore emphasizes the transformative potential of this program: “This is about healing a nation. If we desire a peaceful Somalia, we must begin by showing our children how to cope with pain, express empathy, and build meaningful relationships.”
The Voices That Matter
The true ambassadors of this initiative, however, are the children themselves. “I enjoy the stories,” shares a shy seven-year-old boy with bright eyes, “They help me understand feelings better. Now I can talk to my parents more easily.”
It’s comforting to realize that even in a land marred by strife, a spark of hope can arise through the laughter and learning of its youngest citizens. As Somalia seeks to rebuild and redefine itself, programs like these provide the emotional and psychological scaffolding necessary for a flourishing future.
A Call to Action
So, what does this mean for the wider African community? As we navigate a continent facing challenges of its own, should we not also prioritize emotional intelligence in our educational curricula? As the winds of change sweep through Somalia, will we take the lessons learned to heart? How can we collectively foster environments where every child feels valued, understood, and prepared to contribute positively to society? Each one of us holds the power to nurture the next generation, and when we empower them with emotional tools, we pave the way for peace in our communities.
As we watch Somalia’s educational landscape transform, let’s join in solidarity across the continent, championing the cause of emotional intelligence — a vital ingredient for healing and hope.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
