Challenges and opportunities for the technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in Somalia: A case for Puntland

The paper “Challenges and Opportunities for the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Somalia: A Case for Puntland,” examines the overall context of TVET in Somalia—especially in Puntland—to address alarmingly high youth unemployment (~67%). The study blends secondary data analysis with a quantitative survey and finds several systemic challenges: a shortage of qualified teachers, gender imbalances among instructors, inadequate instructional materials, unequal distribution of facilities, and low public awareness of TVET’s value. It also highlights administrative overlaps among ministries competing for donor funds, lack of automation in jobs leading to graduate unemployment, unclear roles for public versus private sector stakeholders, and the absence of a standardized curriculum. The authors argue that improving TVET’s quality, relevance, access, governance, and funding—along with developing clear institutional roles—will be vital to aligning it with industry needs and reducing youth joblessness.