A high-level Somaliland delegation comprising top civil servants arrived in the city of Frankfurt, Federal Republic of Germany, on Thursday. This delegation has been extended an invitation by the Federal Republic of Germany’s Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), headquartered in Bonn, for an exclusive study tour focused on the “Rehabilitation of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)” project.
During their visit to the German Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) systems, the Somaliland delegation engaged in multifaceted discussions that meticulously explored various aspects of economic development and industrialization opportunities. Their agenda was rich with activities designed to gain insights, exchange knowledge, and harness Germany’s expertise in vocational education and training.
The delegation embarked on a comprehensive journey, venturing into the heart of Germany’s educational and economic landscape. Visits to prestigious German government ministries, renowned learning institutions, and private companies were meticulously planned. In addition to these visits, scheduled meetings encouraged interactions with academic experts from various fields and government officials.
The discussions encapsulated a wide array of pivotal topics:
Insight into Somaliland’s Vocational Education and Training: Representatives from the Somaliland delegation offered comprehensive insights into the current landscape of vocational education and training within Somaliland. They shed light on the existing structure, challenges, and future prospects of vocational education, providing a holistic view of its development trajectory.
Presentation of GOVET: The delegation received a presentation and engaged in discussions about GOVET (German Office for International Cooperation in Vocational Education and Training). These sessions likely highlighted GOVET’s instrumental role, strategies, and collaborative initiatives in promoting vocational education and training globally, potentially inspiring lessons for Somaliland’s context.
Vocational Education and Training in Germany: An in-depth exploration and analysis of Germany’s vocational education and training system took center stage. The discussions aimed to elucidate the key features, methodologies, successes, and challenges of Germany’s renowned vocational education model, offering valuable insights for adaptation and improvement.
The Role of the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training: The Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training’s crucial role in developing and maintaining Germany’s strong labor market-oriented training system was the topic of lively discussions. Insights gleaned likely informed strategies for strengthening Somaliland’s vocational training infrastructure.
The German System as a Model for Labor Market-Oriented Training: Deliberations revolved around the German system’s role as a model and driving force behind labor market-oriented training systems, both domestically and globally. These discussions provided invaluable perspectives for shaping Somaliland’s vocational education landscape.
Alongside Minister of Planning Dr. Abdi Osman “Shibin” and the DGs of Trade, Education, and the Chamber of Commerce, we received a briefing on German TVET systems. Discussions also covered the pivotal role of the German Office for International Cooperation in Vocational Education and Training, serving as a global gateway for vocational education collaboration at the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training campus. Topics included the TVET Dual System, quality assurance in company-based training, vocational training policies, regulations, and reform needs.
The delegation visited the European Vocational Education College in Bonn, Germany, where we received a comprehensive briefing on labor market-oriented training systems both domestically and internationally. The session focused on knowledge transfer regarding models and the driving forces shaping these systems at the European Vocational Education College.
Somaliland Delegation Meets Directors from Baden-Wurttemberg Ministry for Vocational Education and Labour
During their visit to Germany, the Somaliland delegation engaged in a significant meeting with the Directors of Labour, Vocational Education, and Skilled Labour Security from the Ministry of Economy, Labour, and Housing of the Baden-Wurttemberg region. This meeting served as a pivotal platform for fostering collaborative relations and exploring avenues for implementing a robust dual-system vocational education and training (VET) framework.
The discussions centered on forging stronger ties between government institutions, private companies, and the chamber of commerce towards enhancing vocational education. The delegation and the German officials deliberated extensively on the mechanisms and strategies required to establish and fortify a dual-system VET model in Somaliland.
The dual-system VET, renowned in Germany, intertwines practical on-the-job training with classroom education. This approach enables students to acquire theoretical knowledge while gaining hands-on experience within relevant industries, thereby ensuring a well-rounded and industry-ready workforce.
The exchange of insights and experiences between the Somaliland delegation and the directors from Baden-Wurttemberg aimed to identify best practices, understand operational frameworks, and explore potential avenues for collaboration. The discussions emphasized the importance of synergizing efforts between governmental bodies, private enterprises, and the chamber of commerce to effectively implement and sustain a robust dual-system VET in Somaliland.
The engagement sought to establish a foundation for a mutually beneficial relationship where both parties could share expertise, strategies, and resources to support Somaliland’s endeavors to strengthen its vocational education landscape. This collaborative effort was envisioned to pave the way for a more skilled and adaptive workforce in Somaliland, aligning education with the needs of industries and enhancing opportunities for employment and economic growth within the region.
As part of the transformative Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) study tour with Germany’s BMZ (Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development), the Somaliland delegation visited Robert-Mayer-Schule in Stuttgart. During this visit, the delegation received a comprehensive briefing on the vocational education programs and methodologies employed by Robert-Mayer-Schule.
This renowned vocational school in Stuttgart is recognized for its emphasis on technical and industrial education. The purpose of the delegation’s visit was to gain valuable insights into the school’s curriculum, teaching methods, and educational strategies. It provided an opportunity for the delegation to engage with educators, observe the training methodologies in action, and potentially hold discussions with both teachers and students.”
These intensive exchanges aimed to foster a comprehensive understanding of vocational education and training systems, leveraging Germany’s expertise to benefit Somaliland’s development initiatives. The exposure to Germany’s successful models is anticipated to catalyze innovative strategies and initiatives, laying a robust foundation for Somaliland’s vocational education advancement and economic growth trajectory.
A Grateful Send-Off: Somaliland Diaspora’s Heartfelt Farewell Dinner for the Delegation in Germany
The former Somaliland Representative in Germany, Ms. Muna Mohamoud, along with the proactive efforts of Somaliland’s vibrant and committed young people and women in Germany, extended a warm welcome to the delegation at the conclusion of the tour visit, culminating in a memorable farewell dinner.
This heartfelt gathering provided an invaluable opportunity for the Diaspora community to engage with the delegation, offering sincere expressions of gratitude for their visit. It served as a pivotal moment, fostering camaraderie and allowing for open discussions on shared aspirations for the advancement of Somaliland’s future.
The resounding success of the farewell dinner stood as a testament to the unwavering dedication of the Somaliland community in Germany. Notably, the active involvement and support of diaspora members from various countries, including the Netherlands, further highlighted the unity and collective commitment toward initiatives aimed at fostering progress and prosperity in Somaliland.
