HARGEYSA (KAAB TV) – In a significant move to bolster educational ties, Taiwan has awarded scholarships to 32 young Somalilanders, enabling them to pursue higher education at prestigious universities in Taiwan.
The announcement was made by the Taiwan Diplomatic Mission in Hargeisa during the 2024 Taiwan Scholarships Awarding Ceremony on Friday.
“Pleased to host the 2024 Taiwan Scholarships Awarding Ceremony to acknowledge the 32 Taiwan Scholarships direct recipients this year,” the embassy posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Quoting a Taiwanese proverb, the embassy added, “Drink water and thank its source; eat fruit and stay grateful to trees. We encourage recipients to give back to Somaliland.”
Taiwan, an unrecognized yet stable and prosperous country in East Asia, established its diplomatic mission in Somaliland in 2020. Since then, both sides have exchanged high-level visits, strengthening their bilateral relationship.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has referred to Somaliland as a country since 2023, signaling official recognition. Currently, Taiwan is the only nation globally to recognize Somaliland in this capacity.
With its growing economy and top-notch expertise in global technology, Taiwanese education is highly respected and increasingly attractive to many Somali students.
The scholarships are seen as a major opportunity to empower Somaliland’s youth, particularly those who lack the financial resources to attend international universities.
The initiative is expected to have a direct impact on Somaliland communities by equipping the next generation with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to the country’s development.