LAASCAANOOD, Somalia (Kaab TV) – In Laascaanood, a city that experienced a year-long conflict in 2023, Muna and Rowda, both secondary school students, have for the first time on Saturday sat for the national secondary school exams this year.
These two young women were forced to flee the city with their parents but returned in September 2023 after the conflict ended and a new administration was established. They were able to complete their secondary school education despite the disruptions.
The national exams that started on Saturday have seen 37,000 candidates sit for the exams in Somalia. However, Somaliland has 38,489 candidates, showing a far higher number than the rest of Somalia.
Muna Khadar’s family only returned to Laascaanood late last year as the war ravaged the city between Somaliland forces and the SSC-Khaatumo fighters.
“I am glad that I am sitting for my exams to end my secondary school studies after ending the 12-year education. I am happy that I can finally do my exams,” she said.
Rowda Nadiif Sulayman also said, “Even though the exams are held under the Ministry of Education, I am expecting that more women can get an education. I am delighted that we have the exams happening and that we have stability to do our exams,” Rowda said, referring to the conflict that brought the city to a partial collapse due to the fighting.
Access to education is a major challenge in Somalia, particularly for girls and young women. Only 25 percent of primary school-aged girls attend formal schools.
Additionally, 65 percent of young women aged 20 to 24 have not attended school at all or have only some primary education.
Even though Muna and Rowda are finishing their secondary school education, many young girls are not as fortunate as these two young women.
Throughout the country, young girls are often expected to contribute to household work from a young age, face early marriage or other types of gender-based violence, and may face restrictions on when and where they can travel.
When asked about their feelings regarding the exams, Muna and Rowda expressed optimism and anticipation of success. Both have high ambitions for their future.