Dear Somaliland and Ethiopia Graduating Class of 2024 It is a great pleasure and honor to be part of the official delegates from the Republic of Somaliland, together with the Deputy Chairman of the C

Dear Somaliland and Ethiopia Graduating Class of 2024
It is a great pleasure and honor to be part of the official delegates from the Republic of Somaliland, together with the Deputy Chairman of the Civil Service Commission of Somaliland H.E: Abdilahi Ahmed Farah, and Director/s from the Civil Service Institute CSI and the Civil Service Commission ( Hay'adda Shaqaalaha Dawladda JSL - Civil Service Commission) and the First Secretary of the Somaliland Embassy in Ethiopia.
For over a decade, ECSU has been a beacon of knowledge and opportunity for Somaliland civil servants. Through its generous scholarship programs, ECSU has empowered more than two hundred Somalilanders to achieve their master's degrees and hundred more to earn their bachelor's degrees. These graduates have returned to Somaliland with a wealth of knowledge and experience. They have been at the forefront of transformative changes and reforms within our civil service sector, assuming high-level government positions such as ministers, director generals, and commissioners. I am proud to count myself among these esteemed graduates.
The relationship between ECSU and Somaliland extends far beyond the awarding of scholarships. ECSU has been a steadfast partner in enhancing the capacity of the Somaliland Civil Service Institute. One of the most notable collaborations has been the support provided in establishing our postgraduate school. Under the coordination of Prof. Tesfaye Debele, ECSU assisted us in developing the modules for all our master's programs. Moreover, recognizing the scarcity of PhD holders in Somaliland, we utilized some of the distinguished faculty members of ECSU to travel to Hargeisa and teach courses. This collaboration has been pivotal in elevating the standards of education and training within our civil service.
Over the past decade, these collaborations have not only strengthened our institutions but also fortified the bonds between Somaliland and Ethiopia. It is through these shared efforts that we have been able to make significant strides in our respective fields.
Today, we stand on the threshold of a new era of cooperation and partnership between our two nations.
The historic Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Republic of Somaliland and Ethiopia is a testament to our commitment to mutual support and shared prosperity. Thanks to the visionary leadership of President H.E. Muse Bihi Abdi and Prime Minister Abiye Ahmed. This agreement is more than a diplomatic milestone; it represents a vision for a future where both nations thrive together. By working hand in hand, we are paving the way for economic growth, enhanced security, and a brighter future for our peoples, and that of our neighboring countries.
Supporting each other and committing to mutually beneficial interactions is the very essence of being good neighbors. When neighbors support each other, they create a foundation of trust and collaboration that benefits everyone involved. This principle is at the heart of Somaliland's relationship with Ethiopia. We are better off when we think collectively about the future betterment of our communities. We are better off when we are all better off!
I firmly believe that the benefits of this partnership will soon become evident. For Ethiopia, the access to the sea through Somaliland's ports, particularly Berbera, opens up new avenues for trade and economic expansion. For Somaliland, the recognition we have long sought, coupled with access to Ethiopia's vast market of over one hundred million people, promises unprecedented opportunities for growth and development.
To the graduates, today is a celebration of your hard work, dedication, and perseverance. You have reached a significant milestone, and you are now equipped with the knowledge and skills to make a profound impact in your communities and beyond. Remember that your journey doesn't end here. As you step into the next chapter of your lives, continue to strive for excellence, uphold the values of integrity and service, and be agents of positive change.
In closing, let us continue to build on this strong foundation, fostering partnerships that uplift our nations and create a future filled with promise and opportunity.
Congratulations to the graduating class, and thank you.