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Somali International University campus
About SIU

Welcome to SIU

Somali International University (SIU) is a private, non-profit institution of higher education in Mogadishu, providing innovative undergraduate and graduate education. It was founded in 2012.

Our Foundation

Philosophy & Values

SIU holds that every Somali has a right to a good education. It is founded on the conviction that a solid educational foundation, joined to the deliberate formation of good character, is the most durable means by which the Somali people will overcome poverty and build a society in which each generation can aspire with confidence.

Mission

Somali International University provides accessible, high-quality education and practical professional training; conducts applied research and promotes innovation in response to the challenges facing Somalia and the region; and serves communities through outreach, professional partnerships and public engagement. SIU develops graduates with the knowledge, skills, character and confidence to succeed professionally, act ethically, and contribute to the reconstruction, development and sustainable progress of Somalia and the wider world.

Vision

To be Somalia's leading university for professional education and applied research, recognized across the Horn of Africa for graduates of proven competence and character, and for scholarship and innovation that advance national development and sustainability.

Our Journey

History of the University

Somali International University (SIU) is a private, non-profit institution of higher education in Mogadishu, founded in 2012 and accredited by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education of Somalia in November 2012. The University began instruction on 4 February 2013 with 847 students.

Today, SIU serves more than 4,000 students across five campuses and has produced more than 6,500 alumni working across Somalia. The University has grown from its original faculties to nine faculties and twenty-three academic departments, expanding its academic offerings in response to national needs.

SIU is committed to providing quality education through a learning environment that promotes ethical values, critical thinking, professional skills, and lifelong learning.

SIU Muuse Galaal Campus entrance, part of the University's history and growth

“Education is the most powerful weapon to change the world.”

Key Milestones

  1. 2012

    University Founded

    SIU established as a private, non-profit institution of higher education in Mogadishu.

  2. Nov 2012

    Accreditation

    Accredited by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education of Somalia.

  3. 4 Feb 2013

    Instruction Commenced

    Teaching began with 847 students.

Status
Private, non-profit
Accredited
Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education of Somalia, Nov 2012
Academic system
Semester system; First: Sep–Feb, Second: Mar–Jun, Summer: Jul–Aug (each ~16 weeks)
Library
60,000+ titles and media, ~150,000 e-books
Campus internet
Wireless across all campuses; IT helpdesk 20+ hrs/week
Motto
Knowledge, Skills and Morality
At a Glance

SIU at a Glance

A snapshot of our growth, academic strength and community impact since our founding in 2012.

2012

Founded

9

Faculties

23

Departments

5

Campuses

4,000+

Students

6,500+

Alumni

41

Programmes

150,000+

E-books

What We Stand For

Our Core Values

These values shape our decisions, guide our actions, and define who we are as a university community.

Integrity and Credibility

We do what we say, and our word can be relied upon by students, staff and partners alike.

Innovativeness

We seek better ways of teaching, learning and serving, and we are willing to change.

Commitment

We hold ourselves to the promises we make to our students and to our country.

Transparency

We govern openly, account for our decisions, and welcome scrutiny.

Excellence and Professionalism

We measure ourselves against the best, not against the nearest.

Access and Equity

We ensure fair, inclusive and affordable access to quality higher education for all qualified students.

Our Path Forward

Strategic Objectives

The University pursues seven objectives, which together give effect to its vision and mission and frame its strategic direction.

Learning Environment

Provide a safe, inclusive and technologically equipped learning environment that measurably improves student progression and completion.

Research Culture

Build a research culture that produces peer-reviewed scholarship on the problems facing Somalia and the region.

Outcome-Based Programmes

Deliver programmes that are outcome-based, externally reviewed, and demonstrably valued by employers.

Academic Staff

Recruit, develop and retain academic staff qualified to deliver the University's programmes and research ambition.

Community & National Service

Serve Somalia's development through community outreach, professional partnership and public engagement grounded in Somali, Islamic and African values.

Access & Affordability

Expand access to affordable, internationally competitive higher education and provide a credible alternative to studying abroad.

Youth Empowerment

Empower youth through quality education, leadership, employability, entrepreneurship, civic responsibility, peacebuilding, and social cohesion.

Somali International University campus
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Be Part of a Brighter Future

Be part of our journey to transform education and contribute to Somalia's bright future.

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