By Hassan Adan
SIMAD University has been officially recognized as an authorized Pearson VUE Test Centre, marking a significant milestone for higher education and professional development in Somalia by enabling candidates to sit internationally recognized certification examinations without traveling abroad.
The newly accredited testing centre, hosted at the university’s Center for Research and Development (CRD), will offer secure, computer-based examinations leading to globally recognized professional certifications and credentials across a wide range of industries.
The development is expected to benefit university students, graduates, professionals, government employees and private-sector workers in Somalia seeking internationally accredited qualifications in fields such as information technology, cybersecurity, project management, healthcare, finance, engineering and business.
Pearson VUE Founded in 1994 as Virtual University Enterprises (VUE) before becoming part of Pearson in 2000 is one of the world’s leading providers of computer-based testing services, delivering certification and licensure examinations on behalf of hundreds of professional organizations, technology companies, academic institutions and government agencies.
Operating through a global network of authorized testing centres in more than 180 countries, the company administers millions of high-stakes examinations annually under internationally recognized security and quality standards.
Many of the world’s leading certification programmes—including those offered by major technology companies and professional associations—use Pearson VUE to deliver their examinations.
These credentials are widely recognized by employers, governments and institutions around the world and are increasingly viewed as essential qualifications in today’s competitive job market.
With the accreditation, candidates in Somalia can now take eligible Pearson VUE examinations at SIMAD University’s secure testing facility, reducing the financial costs and logistical challenges previously faced by professionals and students who had to travel abroad to obtain internationally recognized certifications.
In a statement, SIMAD University said the accreditation reflects its continued commitment to expanding educational opportunities, strengthening research and innovation, and equipping Somali learners with globally competitive skills.
“Becoming an authorized Pearson VUE Test Centre is a significant milestone in our commitment to academic excellence and workforce development. This accreditation enables students and professionals in Somalia to access internationally recognized certification examinations through a secure, globally standardized testing environment without leaving the country,” the university said.
The university added that the initiative forms part of its broader vision to expand access to world-class education and professional development opportunities while supporting Somalia’s growing digital economy and knowledge-based workforce.
A senior Lecturer at Institute of Modern Language ( IML) at SIMAD University Ahmed Abdullahi , described the accreditation as a major step forward in strengthening the country’s higher education sector and improving access to globally recognized professional qualifications.
“The establishment of an internationally accredited testing centre in Somalia aligns with the country’s efforts to improve the quality of higher education and build a workforce equipped with globally competitive skills,” Lecturer Ahmed added
Mahad Mohamud Salad, a Trainer of Trainers (TOT) at Galmudug Teachers Training College under Somalia’s Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education, said improved access to internationally accredited certification examinations can help bridge skills gaps, enhance employability and strengthen workforce competitiveness.
“Improved access to internationally accredited certification examinations can help bridge skills gaps, enhance employability and strengthen workforce competitiveness,” Mahad told Frontier Online in an interview.
“The availability of a globally recognized testing centre in Somalia will encourage more students and professionals to pursue international certifications, opening doors to career advancement both locally and abroad,” he added.
The accreditation also reinforces SIMAD University’s standing as one of Somalia’s leading higher education institutions.
According to the latest Webometrics Ranking of World Universities, SIMAD University is ranked among the country’s top universities, reflecting its growing reputation for academic excellence, research output and digital visibility.
A senior adviser at Somalia’s Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education said expanding access to internationally recognized certification examinations is expected to strengthen workforce competitiveness, enhance professional skills and support Somalia’s efforts to build a knowledge-based economy capable of competing in regional and global markets.
The opening of the Pearson VUE Test Centre marks another milestone in Somalia’s higher education sector, creating new opportunities for students and professionals to earn globally recognized credentials while remaining in the country.
