By Mohamed Abdi - Reporter
JIGJIGA, Sept. 2, 2026 — Four hundred primary and middle school students from low-income families in Jigjiga received books, pens, school bags and uniforms on Tuesday to help them prepare for the 2026/2027 academic year.
The supplies were purchased by a cooperative of women traders affiliated with the Prosperity Party as part of an initiative to help students whose families face difficulties covering education-related expenses.
Organizers said the assistance was intended to ensure that financial hardship does not prevent students from continuing their education as schools prepare for the new academic year.
The distribution ceremony was attended by Somali Regional State Education Bureau head Mohamed Sheikh Aden, Deputy Head of the Women and Children Affairs Bureau Ubax Abdirahman, Jigjiga Deputy Mayor Khadar Budul and other officials.
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Mohamed Sheikh Aden said supporting people from low-income backgrounds was a longstanding tradition in the local community and pledged continued support for disadvantaged students to help ensure equal access to educational opportunities.
“The culture of mutual support is something we have practiced for generations, and it is a tradition that belongs to us,” Mohamed said.
Officials also called on businesses, community members and other institutions to increase support for students facing financial difficulties and help reduce barriers to education.
The assistance comes as schools in the region prepare for the start of the new academic year, with authorities and community groups seeking to help students from low-income families remain in school.
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