Sheikh University of Science and Technology worth US$250,000 handed to government by DP World

DP World Berbera has handed over a new science laboratory to Sheikh University of Science and Technology, fulfilling a US$250,000 commitment made in 2022 to advance education and empower future generations in Somaliland.

Sheikh University of Science and Technology is a community-owned public university located in the mountaintop town of Sheikh in the Sahil region. The laboratory investment is part of DP World’s broader education portfolio in Somaliland, which includes scholarship programs at Abaarso Secondary School and Barwaqo University—a fellowship initiative running from 2017 to 2031.

The state-of-the-art facility will enhance the university’s research and practical learning capabilities in petroleum and mining engineering, hydrology, environmental sciences, and information and communication technology—fields critical to Somaliland’s sustainable development.

Supachai Wattanaveerachai, CEO, DP World Horn of Africa, said: “This project reflects DP World’s belief that education drives sustainable growth. By investing in Sheikh University, we are supporting Somaliland’s vision to build a generation that is equipped with the knowledge, skills and innovation that is required in shaping the nation’s future. We are confident that this new laboratory will strengthen science education, open new opportunities for students and create long-term impact for the community.”

The handover ceremony brought together government officials, university committee members, community leaders, and local stakeholders. The laboratory handover reinforces DP World’s belief that trade and education go hand in hand—empowering people, improving livelihoods, and enabling lasting progress for the communities it serves.

DP World has also invested in major infrastructure projects, including the Berbera Economic Zone (BEZ) and an upcoming edible oil terminal, both aimed at strengthening Somaliland’s trade ecosystem and creating local employment opportunities.

Meanwhile, Somaliland is accelerating its push to become a regional hub for advanced medical care, as officials from the Ministry of Health Development met with representatives of the Mohamed Bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity to discuss ongoing health initiatives and the construction of the Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Referral Hospital in Burao.

The meeting, led by Dr. Ahmed Mahmoud Jama, the Ministry’s Director General, focused on expanding maternal and child health programs, strengthening primary healthcare networks, and ensuring the hospital provides world-class medical services. The discussions also emphasized sustainable international partnerships to enhance healthcare delivery across Somaliland.

The Burao hospital, funded by the United Arab Emirates and named after UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, was inaugarated in Augusr bu President Dr Abdirahman Mohamen Irro.

 Once completed, it will be the largest and most modern medical facility in Somaliland, serving patients from across the Horn of Africa and reducing the nation’s reliance on sending patients abroad for treatment.

President Irro has articulated a national vision to transform Somaliland’s healthcare sector, aiming to ensure that quality medical services are accessible to all citizens, strengthen specialized care, and build a sustainable system that meets the region’s growing needs. “Healthcare is a cornerstone of our national development strategy,” he said during the inauguration, “and we are committed to creating facilities that meet international standards and serve generations to come.”

Dr. Jama thanked the Foundation for its continued support, highlighting that collaboration with international partners is key to achieving the country’s health ambitions.

Observers note that Somaliland’s healthcare initiatives signal a broader ambition: to position the region as a hub for specialized medical services, attract international expertise, and improve health outcomes for millions in East Africa.

The project also reflects growing diplomatic and economic engagement between Somaliland and international partners, highlighting the country’s strategic role in regional development and humanitarian initiatives.