Friday January 10, 2025
Somalia’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Sheikh Noor Mohamed Hassan (right), meets with Prof. Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed, President of the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIU), to discuss strengthening educational partnerships and enhancing opportunities for Somali students. (Photo: The News PK)
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (HOL) — Somalia’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Sheikh Noor Mohamed Hassan, called for stronger educational ties between the two nations during a visit to the International Islamic University (IIU) Islamabad on Thursday.
Meeting with IIU President Prof. Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed at the university’s new campus, Ambassador Hassan stressed the institution’s role in Somalia’s development. “IIU has played a transformative role in shaping Somali leaders. Many of our ministers and senior officials are proud alumni of this university,” he said.
The ambassador underscored the importance of expanding partnerships between IIU and Somali academic institutions to create more opportunities for Somali students. He commended IIU’s initiatives to support international students, describing them as “a model for fostering global academic exchange.”
Dr. Syed reiterated IIU’s commitment to diversity, noting that the university hosts students from over 40 countries. He announced plans for a dedicated hostel for international students as part of a broader effort to enhance campus facilities.
“Somalia holds a special place in our collaborative vision,” Dr. Syed said, emphasizing the country’s membership in the Islamic Development Bank as a foundation for shared growth.