Hormuud Salaam Foundation, SomaliREN, and Tabaarak ICT Launch “Bile Initiative” to Advance Tech Skills for Somali Students

A new initiative, called the “Bile Initiative,” was launched at Jazeera Hotel in Mogadishu to equip final-year Computer Science students in Somalia with in-demand tech skills and bridge the gap between academic training and industry needs. This collaboration, led by Hormuud Salaam Foundation, Somali Research and Education Network (SomaliREN), and Tabaarak ICT Solutions, aims to address youth unemployment and foster Somalia’s tech sector.

The program will offer selected students hands-on training in MEAN Stack, .NET, and UI/UX development, alongside six-month internships at Tabaarak ICT Solutions. Students will gain practical experience, mentorship from industry professionals, and enhanced job prospects.

Abdullahi Nur Osman, CEO of Hormuud Salaam Foundation, underscored the significance of investing in Somali youth, stating, “Empowering young minds is essential for building a prosperous future for Somalia. By investing in these talented students, we foster innovation and contribute to the socio-economic advancement of our country.”

Highlighting the program’s socio-economic impact, Hon. Yusuf Mohamed Aden, Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, called the initiative a “significant milestone in Somalia’s technological advancement,” adding, “It invests in both their futures and our nation’s progress.”

The Bile Initiative responds to Somalia’s high youth unemployment rates by equipping graduates with specialized skills that align with market demands. Many graduates are expected to secure roles at Tabaarak ICT Solutions or other technology companies, with the program fostering professional networks to support their careers.

Dr. Mohamed Bidey, Deputy Chairman of SomaliREN, noted the collaborative impact of the initiative: “This program bridges our universities with the tech industry, ensuring our students are both academically accomplished and industry-ready.”

The Bile Initiative is set to shape a skilled workforce that will drive innovation in Somalia’s tech ecosystem. Gure Abdi Anshur, CEO of Tabaarak ICT Solutions, emphasized the initiative’s long-term goals: “The Bile Initiative is a platform to nurture the next generation of technology leaders in Somalia. Through intensive training and mentorship, we aim to equip students with the skills to excel in the tech industry.”

Hon. Ahmed Osman Dirie, State Minister of Communications and Technology, praised the initiative’s role in addressing unemployment, noting, “We are living in the era of technology, where it plays a pivotal role in all aspects of life. Educating our youth in technological skills aligns perfectly with the demands of our time.”

Mustaqbal