By Shire Abdi - Reporter
Djibouti, 1 April 2026 The University of Djibouti marked its 25th anniversary in a ceremony led by President Ismail Guelleh who lauded the institution’s contribution to national development and training.
Speaking at a ceremony held at the Balbala campus on Tuesday Guelleh described the creation of the university in 2000 as a “major political decision” that transformed access to higher education in the country, according to Djibouti’s state news agency ADI.
“It marked a break from a time when only a limited number of students could study abroad through scholarships,” he said.
The event brought together government officials, academics and students, and included presentations on the university’s academic programmes and research activities.
Guelleh toured several scientific facilities, including laboratories focused on renewable energy, civil engineering, chemistry and artificial intelligence, highlighting the institution’s expanding areas of expertise.
He praised the university’s “performance” in producing professionals critical to national development, including engineers, teachers, health workers and legal experts.
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The president also called for further efforts to position the University of Djibouti as a “regional centre of excellence,” emphasising the need to strengthen strategic academic fields, expand research and deepen partnerships with the private sector.
He urged greater support for innovation and student entrepreneurship as part of broader development goals.
The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed, Higher Education Minister Nabil Mohamed Ahmed and university president Djama Mohamed Hassan.
The University of Djibouti, established in 2000, now hosts thousands of students and is a key pillar of the country’s higher education system.
Guelleh’s remarks come as Djibouti prepares for elections in 2026, with authorities highlighting development achievements across sectors including education and infrastructure.