Thousands of students across the self-declared independent state of Somaliland began sitting for the 2025 National Certificate Examinations on Saturday.

The nationwide exams for Grade 8 and Grade 12 students were officially launched by Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro), President of the self-declared Republic of Somaliland, during a ceremony held at Farah Omar Secondary School in the capital city of Hargeisa.

President Irro emphasized the critical role that education plays in Somaliland’s path to development and international recognition.

He was addressing students, educators, and education officials.

The head of state praised the commitment and hard work of the tens of thousands of students participating in the exams.

He encouraged them to approach the challenge with honesty, confidence, and discipline.

“These examinations are not just a test of knowledge—they are a testament to your resilience and a stepping stone to your future,” said President Irro.

“Our youth are the future of Somaliland. Through education, you will lead the charge in innovation, governance, and national pride.”

The President also called on teachers, exam supervisors, and education authorities to ensure the credibility and transparency of the examination process.

He said the government has a zero-tolerance stance on malpractice.

The national exams, which are a requirement for academic progression and certification in Somaliland’s education system, are being administered simultaneously in centers across the autonomous state.

This year’s candidates include students from both public and private schools, with the Ministry of Education and Science overseeing logistics and quality assurance.

President Irro expressed his confidence in the students’ potential and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in education as a cornerstone of national development.

The education system in Somaliland follows a 4-4-4 structure, consisting of four years each of lower primary, upper primary, and secondary education.

Managed by the Ministry of Education and Science, the system has seen steady growth despite limited international recognition and resources.

National Certificate Examinations are administered at the end of Grades 8 and 12 to assess students' readiness for the next academic level or entry into higher education.

Somaliland uses a modified version of the Kenyan curriculum, which is widely regarded for its structure and academic rigor. This alignment helps standardize learning outcomes and facilitates regional academic compatibility.

While the autonomous state has made notable strides in expanding access to education, especially in urban areas, challenges remain—including teacher shortages and limited infrastructure in rural regions.