The Somaliland government has officially recognized the Somaliland Teachers’ Association (SOLTA), a significant milestone for an organization that has long sought recognition to advocate for teachers and the advancement of education in the region.
In a formal ceremony, the Minister of Education and Science, Dr. Ahmed Aden Buhane, confirmed that Somaliland Teachers’ Association (SOLTA) has now met the necessary criteria to operate as a legal entity representing the nation’s teachers.
This recognition marks a pivotal step for SOLTA in its mission to unite teachers across Somaliland and to contribute to the broader development of the educational sector.
In a press release issued by Somaliland Teachers’ Association (SOLTA), the organization expressed its gratitude and outlined the significance of this recognition:
“We are excited to announce that the Somaliland Teachers’ Association (SOLTA) has officially been recognized by the Somaliland Ministry of Education and Science. This historic approval, formalized through letter ref: WWS/W/01/229/2004 dated 30/09/2024, signals a new era for teachers and education in Somaliland.”
SOLTA was initially granted a Trade Union Registration Certificate by the Ministry of Employment, Social Affairs & Family on 25th-March-2021. With this recent recognition, SOLTA is now authorized to represent teachers at the primary, intermediate, and secondary levels across Somaliland. This formal approval strengthens the association’s ability to champion the professional interests of teachers and contribute to educational progress throughout the nation.
Reflecting on the organization’s growth, Somaliland Teachers’ Association (SOLTA) noted that its first General Assembly Meeting was held on 20th-December-2021 at Mansoor Hotel in Hargeisa, Somaliland. During this landmark gathering, delegates representing teachers from all regions of Somaliland elected twenty-three members to the Board of Directors, as well as regional governors and five executive committee members. This event marked the start of SOLTA’s unified efforts to advocate for teachers’ welfare and enhance educational outcomes.
SOLTA also expressed deep appreciation for the support received from key government figures:
“We extend our deepest gratitude to the Minister of Education and Science, Dr. Ahmed Aden Buhane, for his support and approval of this important recognition. We also thank the Ministry of Employment, Social Affairs & Family for their continued backing since our inception.”
Moving forward, SOLTA is committed to collaborating closely with the Somaliland Ministry of Education and Science, as well as international partners, donors, and educational stakeholders. The association aims to contribute meaningfully to educational growth, promote teachers’ professional development, and enhance the quality of education across the region.
”By forging strong partnerships, we are dedicated to advancing the teaching profession, encouraging continuous professional growth, and building a robust educational system that benefits educators and students alike,”_ the press release continued.
Somaliland Teachers’ Association (SOLTA) acknowledged the hard work and contributions of all individuals who have helped make this vision a reality, reaffirming its dedication to the future of education in Somaliland.
Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed (Ahmed Omaar)
Director of Training and Organizational Development | Member of the Board of Directors
Somaliland Teachers’ Association (SOLTA)
Email: soltateachers@gmail.com
Hargeisa, Somaliland
