Reforming the Unseen: How the Education System in Somalia Can Begin to Change Student Mindsets

Education is often regarded as the cornerstone of progress and development. It shapes the future of nations, molding young minds into responsible, thoughtful, and productive citizens. However, in Somalia, education has failed to fulfill this transformative promise for many students. While students graduate with certificates, the behavior, values, and mindset needed to navigate the challenges of modern society remain largely unchanged. The gap between academic learning and the development of well-rounded individuals is undeniable, and it’s time to address the unseen element that could make all the difference: mindset.

Somalia’s education system, though evolving, still struggles to provide a holistic education that empowers students beyond textbooks. The system is often centered around rote memorization, where students are taught to recall information rather than think critically or engage with real-world challenges. This leads to graduates who may excel in exams but lack the practical skills, problem-solving abilities, and resilience necessary to thrive in today’s fast-changing world.

Beyond the academic content, there is also a profound lack of emphasis on personal growth, values, and character building in schools. This gap becomes evident in students’ behavior and attitudes toward learning, their communities, and their futures. The lack of focus on cultivating emotional intelligence, empathy, leadership, and ethics leaves students ill-equipped to make meaningful contributions to society.

The Unseen Element: Mindset

The key factor that is often overlooked is mindset. Education in Somalia tends to focus primarily on knowledge transfer, teaching students what to know rather than how to think or how to approach the world. The unseen element that should be integrated into the curriculum is the cultivation of a growth mindset, a mindset that fosters curiosity, resilience, and the belief that one can improve and succeed through effort and perseverance.

The growth mindset, as proposed by psychologist Carol Dweck, suggests that intelligence and abilities are not fixed traits but can be developed through hard work, good strategies, and input from others. By encouraging this mindset, students would learn to embrace challenges, see failures as learning opportunities, and persist in the face of difficulties. Instead of fearing mistakes, they would see them as essential steps toward growth.

Reforming the System: What do we need to do

Integrating Personal Development into the Curriculum
The first step in reforming the Somali education system is to integrate personal development alongside academic subjects. This means teaching students not just how to solve math problems or understand history but also how to manage their emotions, collaborate with others, and approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset. Courses in emotional intelligence, critical thinking, ethics, and leadership should be introduced, helping students develop into well-rounded individuals.

Shifting the Focus from Memorization to Critical Thinking
We need to move away from the traditional exam-driven culture that emphasizes rote memorization and regurgitation of facts. Instead, the focus should be on critical thinking, creativity, and application of knowledge. Teachers should encourage discussions, debates, and project-based learning, allowing students to explore real-world issues and come up with innovative solutions. This shift will not only make learning more engaging but will also equip students with the skills they need to solve problems and think independently.

Empowering Teachers as Role Models
Teachers play an essential role in shaping students' mindsets. They should be trained not only in pedagogy but also in becoming role models for personal development. When teachers demonstrate resilience, empathy, and a growth mindset, students are more likely to adopt these behaviors. Teacher training programs should focus on building these qualities, ensuring that educators are prepared to foster an environment that supports both academic and personal growth.

Incorporating Social Responsibility and Community Engagement
One of the core issues with the Somali education system is the disconnect between what students learn and the needs of their communities. Education should not just prepare students for exams but also for life as active, responsible citizens. Integrating social responsibility into the curriculum by encouraging students to engage in community service and real-world projects will help them understand the value of contributing to society. This could include projects on climate change, social justice, or even local development initiatives.

Promoting a Culture of Lifelong Learning
In today’s world, learning does not stop at graduation. It is essential to instill in students a passion for lifelong learning. In Somalia, the culture of continuous personal and professional development must be nurtured. Students should be encouraged to see education as an ongoing process rather than a one-time event. Schools and universities should offer opportunities for further education, skill-building workshops, and career guidance, ensuring that learning extends beyond the classroom.

It’s not just schools and universities that need to change; society as a whole must become part of this reform process. Parents, community leaders, and policymakers all have a role to play in reshaping the educational landscape. Parents should encourage curiosity, critical thinking, and resilience at home while also being active partners in their children’s education. Community leaders must advocate for a system that focuses on personal development and supports educational reforms.

At the policy level, the government must prioritize educational reforms that go beyond infrastructure development. Policies should be crafted to encourage the integration of personal development into school curriculums, the training of teachers, and the establishment of systems that support students' mental and emotional growth. By making education more comprehensive and holistic, policymakers can help prepare students to face the challenges of the future with confidence.

Ultimately, reforming Somalia’s education system is not a task that can be achieved overnight, but it is a necessary step in preparing our young people to face the future. By focusing on developing students' mindsets, we can create a generation that is not only academically competent but also equipped with the emotional intelligence, resilience, and leadership skills needed to drive societal change. Education should be about more than just passing exams—it should be about shaping the future of our nation, one student at a time. The change begins with us, and it starts in the classroom.

It’s time to reform the unseen, and in doing so, transform the lives of Somali students for the better.