The National Human Rights Commission Visits Somali National University

Mogadishu – The Chairperson of the National Independent Human Rights Commission (NIHRC), Dr. Maryan Qaasim Axmed, has made a working visit to the Somali National University, to strengthen the relationship and cooperation between the two institutions in the areas of research, education, and the advancement of human rights.

The Chairperson was accompanied on the visit by Commissioner Axmed Sheekh Xamsa, Commissioner Farxaan Maxamed Jimcaale, and other members of the Commission. They were welcomed by the Chairperson of the Somali National University, Prof. Dr. Maxamed Maxamuud Maxamed, and other officials from the administration and research centers of the University.

Among the officials who welcomed the delegation were Dr. Cali Cawil Axmed, Deputy Chairperson of Research and Innovation, Dr. Hassan Ga’al, Head of the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, Said Osman Bashir, Director of the Migration and Law Research Center (MILES), and Kaltum Xirsi Dhiblawe, Director of the Center for Innovation and Women's Leadership.

During the meeting, the university leaders provided the delegation with information on the achievements, progress, and challenges facing the University. Both sides also discussed opportunities to strengthen cooperation in human rights research, community awareness, women's empowerment, protection of the rights of vulnerable people, and the advancement of legal knowledge.

Particular attention was given to the collaborative opportunities between the Commission and the Migration and Law Research Center (MILES) at the Somali National University.

The planned collaboration relates to legal research, trafficking and migration, the rights of displaced persons and vulnerable individuals, access to justice, preparation of studies and legal recommendations, and the development of policies to protect human rights.

The Chairperson of the Commission, Dr. Maryan Qaasim Axmed, emphasized the important role that universities play in promoting knowledge, research, and understanding of human rights, especially among the youth.

She also pointed out the importance of utilizing the knowledge and research of the University to address the human rights challenges present in the country, while strengthening the collaboration between educational institutions and those responsible for protecting human rights.

Finally, both parties discussed how to build a sustainable partnership to implement joint programs on research, training, community awareness, and the development of human rights protection in Somalia.