Dr. Saad Ali Shire, Somaliland Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and other members of his delegation on Wednesday meet with the Deputy Chancellor of Al-Azhar University Sh. Dr. Abas Shomaan in the Cairo, Egyptian Capital.
The Somaliland delegation led by Dr. Saad Ali Shire were warmly received by top scholars Al-Azhar Al-Sharif in Cairo, which is a leading at seat of Islamic learning in the World, founded in 970 is the oldest university in the world and center of Islamic scholarship.
During the meeting, the discussion were centered on the historical relations between Somaliland and Al-Azhar University in the past, the Dr. Saad Ali Shire reminded them of the former days , whereby the Islamic institute used to contribute to the country education.
Dr. Saad Ali Shire appealed to the scholars to resume and revive the critical support the Islamic University previously supported learning institution in terms of upholding the cause of knowledge in the country e.g. the running of Gamal Abdi Nassir Secondary school, situated in Burao, Togdheer region.
On His part, Sh. Dr. Abas Shomaan stated that Al-Azhar Al-Sharif will resume and revive the previous critical support in terms of manpower and curriculum, to the Gamal Abdi Nassir Secondary school, situated in Burao .
He furthermore pledged, Al –Azhar University shall begin training Somaliland born Islamic scholars (Ulamas) in the near future as part of its mission is to propagate Islam and Islamic culture.
The two sides also agreed that the Al-Azhar University shall send their highly trained scholars to evaluate local Imams knowledge and the way they deliver their sermons to their respective congregations.
Lastly , Sh. Dr. Abas Shomaan speaking on behalf of Al–Azhar scholars reaffirmed their commitment to support Somaliland through providing expertise and advise on the issue of banking, be it conventional or Islamic banking system.
