Telesom Academy graduates 87 students trained in IT, AI, and digital skills, highlighting growing private sector efforts to strengthen Somaliland’s workforce and digital economy
HARGEISA, Somaliland — In a sign of accelerating investment in digital skills and workforce development, Telesom Group’s training arm, Telesom Academy, graduated 87 students Saturday after completing intensive programs in high-demand technology fields.
The graduates, trained across disciplines ranging from network engineering to artificial intelligence, represent what educators and industry analysts describe as a growing pipeline of talent aligned with the demands of a rapidly evolving global digital economy.
“This is about preparing a workforce that can compete not just locally, but internationally,” a Telesom Academy official said at the ceremony. “The skills these students have acquired are practical, industry-driven, and future-oriented.”
Skills for a digital economy
Participants completed courses in networking and IT infrastructure — including Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and Huawei Certified ICT Associate (HCIA) tracks — as well as Digital Marketing, Full Stack Development, Ethical Hacking, Generative AI, and Project Management.
Several graduates also earned internationally recognized certifications, credentials that significantly enhance employability in competitive job markets.
Among the cohort were employees of Telesom Group, reflecting the company’s broader strategy of continuous professional development and internal upskilling.
“Investing in our people is essential to staying competitive in a fast-changing industry,” a company representative said. “We are building capabilities that will drive innovation across sectors.”
Bridging the skills gap
The graduation comes amid rising demand for digital competencies across Somaliland, where private sector-led initiatives are increasingly filling gaps in formal education systems.
Industry observers say such programs are crucial in addressing persistent shortages of skilled professionals in information technology and related fields.
“There is a clear mismatch between the skills employers need and those available in the labor market,” said a regional workforce development expert. “Programs like Telesom Academy are helping to close that gap.”
Toward a knowledge-based economy
As digital transformation reshapes economies worldwide, Somaliland is positioning itself to harness technology-driven growth. Initiatives focused on coding, cybersecurity, and digital entrepreneurship are seen as foundational to that transition.
Graduates expressed optimism about their prospects.
“These skills open doors,” said one participant. “We now have the tools to build careers, start businesses, and contribute to our society.”
Analysts note that sustained investment in human capital — particularly in technology — will be key to unlocking long-term economic resilience and innovation.
“The future economy will be knowledge-based,” the workforce expert said. “Developing digital talent today is an investment in tomorrow’s competitiveness.”
