By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Somalia’s Prime Minister, Hamza Abdi Barre, has announced a significant government decision to grant amnesty to students who were unable to sit the national Grade 12 examinations during the 2015/2016 academic year.
Speaking on Tuesday evening, Mr Barre said the move was approved by the federal government as part of wider efforts to support access to education and address the long-term impact of conflict and instability on young people’s learning opportunities.
According to the Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education, approximately 28,000 students missed the final secondary school examinations during that academic year. Officials say the absences were caused by what the government has described as “legitimate circumstances”, including insecurity, displacement, limited access to examination centres, and disruptions to the education system in several parts of the country.
The government accepted a recommendation from the Ministry of Education to allow the affected students to receive their Grade 12 certificates based on verified academic records held by the ministry. Education authorities said all required student data has been fully documented, enabling the decision to be implemented without administrative obstacles.
In a statement, the Ministry of Education said the policy aims to promote fairness and inclusivity in Somalia’s education system, while helping thousands of young people overcome barriers that prevented them from completing secondary education.
Prime Minister Barre urged students and parents to make full use of the opportunity, encouraging beneficiaries to continue their studies or pursue further training. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to rebuilding the country’s education sector after decades of conflict.
The decision has been welcomed by education advocates, who say it could improve access to higher education and employment opportunities for young Somalis affected by years of instability.
