By Asha Elmi - Reporter
Mogadishu (Dawan) – Mogadishu today inaugurated the Indonesia–Africa Institute for Strategic Studies (IIIAS) to advance higher education and research ties between Indonesia and East Africa.
The institute is a collaborative effort between Hormuud University and two Indonesian universities: Universitas Muhammadiyah Riau and Universitas Islam Riau, according to Hormuud University President Prof Abdi Omar Shuriye.
The primary goal of IIIAS is to serve as an educational hub that strengthens political, economic, and academic ties between the regions. The institute will offer Master’s and PhD programs, leadership development, policy dialogue, maritime security, Islamic finance, governance, and sustainable development studies.
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While Somalia and Indonesia share a long history rooted in trade across the Indian Ocean, IIIAS represents a formal institutional partnership to bridge educational gaps and expand opportunities.
Prof Shuriye highlighted that the institute will provide students with training, cultural exchange programs, and access to international academic opportunities, with Hormuud University playing a leading role in implementation.
IIIAS plans to engage scholars, diplomats, business leaders, and students from 54 African countries, positioning Somalia as a strategic knowledge hub linking East Africa and Southeast Asia through education, research, and academic diplomacy.