By Zakarie Soohoyde - Reporter
MOGADISHU, Somalia — The 2026 International Multidisciplinary Conference opened in Mogadishu on Saturday, bringing together academics, researchers, policymakers and students to examine the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education, research and sustainable development.
Organised by Hormuud University, the two-day conference is focusing on how AI can transform learning, strengthen scientific research and help address some of Somalia's most pressing social and development challenges.
University officials and other speakers described AI as an increasingly important tool for improving teaching quality, advancing research and supporting evidence-based decision-making across different sectors.
During the conference, researchers and experts are expected to present academic papers examining both the opportunities and challenges associated with integrating AI into education, community development and sustainable growth.
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Speaking at the opening ceremony, Hormuud University President Prof. Abdi Omar Shuriye said the university will make Artificial Intelligence a compulsory subject for every student beginning next academic year, regardless of their academic discipline.
"Starting from the next semester, every student at Hormuud University will be required to study Artificial Intelligence, even those enrolled in faculties unrelated to technology," Prof. Shuriye said.
The conference also aims to strengthen collaboration among universities, researchers and innovation leaders while providing a platform to exchange ideas, research findings and practical solutions that could contribute to the modernization of Somalia's education system and deepen international academic partnerships.