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Somalia and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation’s Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH) have solidified their partnership with plans to establish a National Coordination Office for COMSTECH in Somalia. This was agreed upon during a meeting between COMSTECH Coordinator General Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary and Somali Ambassador Shirwa Abdullahi Ibrahim in Islamabad on Wednesday.
The collaboration aims to oversee and coordinate science, technology, and education programs across Somalia. Both parties highlighted the significance of fostering bilateral cooperation to advance development in critical areas such as healthcare, education, and agricultural technologies.
Key Initiatives Under the Agreement
COMSTECH plans to send an officer to Somalia annually for a three-month period, while Somalia will deputize an official to work at COMSTECH’s Secretariat in Islamabad. This exchange is expected to bolster bilateral programs and ensure effective implementation of shared initiatives.
In 2025, COMSTECH will organize another free eye surgery camp in Somalia, following the success of its previous camp, where 400 individuals benefited from cataract surgeries. Additionally, enhanced cooperation between universities in Pakistan and Somalia is on the agenda, focusing on fields like higher education, agricultural advancements, and specialized medical training, including ENT (ear, nose, and throat) care.
Supporting Somalia’s Scientific Progress
Ambassador Ibrahim expressed gratitude to COMSTECH for its unwavering support, highlighting past successful initiatives. These include a specialized training course in histopathology for Somali medical professionals and COMSTECH Fellowships that have enabled Somali students and doctors to pursue studies in Pakistan and other OIC-member universities.
During the meeting, Ambassador Ibrahim congratulated Dr. Choudhary on his reappointment as COMSTECH Coordinator General and reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to expanding cooperation in science and technology.
Commitment to Healthcare and Education
Dr. Choudhary emphasized COMSTECH’s dedication to supporting Somalia in advancing its science, technology, health, and education sectors. “This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to fostering development and addressing pressing challenges through science and innovation,” he remarked.
COMSTECH’s impactful programs in Somalia reflect its long-term vision of improving healthcare infrastructure and educational opportunities. The organization’s efforts to build capacity in medical and agricultural technologies are aimed at addressing the country’s developmental challenges and improving the quality of life for its citizens.
Future Prospects
This collaboration comes at a critical time when Somalia is striving to rebuild its institutions and infrastructure after decades of conflict. The establishment of a National Coordination Office will not only enhance Somalia’s scientific and technological capabilities but also strengthen ties between the two nations.
Both Somalia and COMSTECH hope to inspire broader international cooperation in addressing developmental challenges in the region, using science and technology as a catalyst for progress.