The Role of Education in Peace and State-Building in Somalia

This study explores the role of education in promoting peace and state- building in Somalia, a country emerging from decades of conflict. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combines a descriptive survey of 360 Somali respondents with a content analysis of 38 primary school textbooks in Somali, Arabic, English, and social studies. The findings highlight that while Somalia's primary school curriculum incorporates peacebuilding themes, it falls short in addressing state-building topics, such as civic education and governance. This study emphasizes the need for curriculum reform to integrate state- building content and embed peacebuilding across all educational levels. It also calls for enhanced investment in teacher training, resource allocation, and community engagement to tackle systemic challenges. Key recommendations include conducting further research, facilitating inclusive stakeholder dialogue, and expanding access to education as integral components of Somalia's post-conflict recovery. By addressing these gaps, Somalia can leverage education as a catalyst for building a more peaceful and resilient society.