Internship Program
The internships are unpaid but come with a monthly stipend to cover basic expenses. The interns are recent graduates with a variety of educational backgrounds, including political science, economics, information technology, and health science.
They are given practical experience and training in research, project management, and communication, and also initiate and complete a research project and submit monthly progress reports.
The program lasts for six months and may include travel to conferences and related activities. Upon completion, the interns receive a certificate of completion and a reference letter from the Institute.
Internships of 2023
Isse Hassan Mohomed recently graduated from the City University of Mogadishu with a
bachelor of arts degree in political science. Before his HIPS internship, he dedicated his
time to teaching at Al Haddi School where he gained valuable insights into educational
dynamics. During his internship, he researched a comprehensive project titled “What
Improved Security in Mogadishu Signifies for University Students, and How Do These
Significations Manifest in Their Everyday Lives. This project analyzed the correlation
between enhanced security measures and their impact on the lives of university students.
Hani Kamil Abdullahi received the bachelor’s degree in business administration from Kismayo University in 2023. During her internship at HIPS, she chose to study the challenges women face in attaining leadership positions in private and public sector organizations. Now she is preparing to pursue professional certification as an accountant from the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).
Ayanle Abdiasis Mohamud recently graduated from the City University of Mogadishu
with a bachelor of arts degree in political science. He also has a certificate in office
procedures in the modern workplace and a diploma in building and maintaining customer
relationships from ALISON.com. He was accepted into the Aspire Leaders Program in
2024. His graduation research thesis was conducted on the challenges different types of
training for forces in Somalia's security sector reform. During his internship at HIPS,
Ayanle researched the challenges of implementing the Ministry of Education’s directive
for the foundation year in higher education. Ayanle is currently a blogger based in
Mogadishu.
Abdinur Isse Mohamed is a journalist based in Mogadishu and holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and communication from the Somali National University. Over the past three years, he has served as a content creator at Mustaqbal Media and concurrently worked as a freelance web writer and shift editor for the Somali National News Agency (SONNA). During his internship, he conducted a research project focusing on the role of social media in peace-building.
Ahmed Fuad Abdulkadir is a recent graduate of Mogadishu University with a
bachelor’s degree in business administration from the Faculty of Economic and
Management Science. He is proficient in QuickBooks, Sage50, Microsoft Excel, Word,
Power BI, and SPSS. Before joining HIPS, he worked at Salam Somali Bank, gaining
experience in banking operations and financial analysis. During his HIPS internship, he
chose to search for digital payment in Somalia. Now he is pursuing project management
certificates from PMI and CAPM, demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning.
He is a well-rounded candidate with a solid academic foundation and practical
experience.
Waliid Yasin Jimale graduated from Mogadishu University with a bachelor of arts in
political science. He wrote his BA thesis on major impediments to government
functioning in Somalia. He is a junior researcher and analyst well versed in Somalia and the Horn of Africa. Moreover, he is passionate about policymaking, governance, the rule
of law, peace-building, and contemporary conflicts. He is pursuing the master of arts
degree in criminal and transitional justice at the United States International University
Africa. During his internship at HIPS, he researched policymakers’ and newly recruited
teachers’ understanding of the challenges and responses to enhancing access to and
quality of education in Somalia.
Mohamed Jama Bile is a passionate social worker and activist based in Garowe. He holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from Puntland State University. He was previously engaged with the Horn Africa Consultants Firm (HACOF) and the Ministry of Women Development and Family Affairs (MOWDAFA) in Puntland. During his internship at HIPS, he conducted a research project on Somali parents and their understanding of autism spectrum disorder.
Hafsa Hussein Yusuf holds a bachelor’s degree in public health and biochemistry from
Hiiraan University. She has worked in nutrition, hygiene promotion, and malnutrition as
well as water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) affairs in Beledweyn. She is currently
working as a school teacher in Beledweyn. During her internship, Hafsa researched the
challenges of educated women in Beledweyn and their responses to pursuing a teaching
career.
Derow Ali Hassan holds a degree in agriculture with a specialization in animal science
from the University of Southern Somalia in Baidoa, and a diploma in social work from
Baidoa University. He has experience working as an agricultural extension agent and
agronomist at CSET Seed Production in Baidoa. While an intern with HIPS, he
conducted project research exploring the challenges of tomato production in the Baidoa
market.
Ilhan Osman Daud is a social worker activist with a bachelor’s degree in social work
from City University of Mogadishu. She has experience in a variety of areas of the
community, such as training professionals in mental health and working with the Somalia
Ministry of Women and Human Rights during the coronavirus outbreak. During her
HIPS internship, Ilhan developed a research paper investigating the causes and
consequences of divorce among families in Mogadishu.
Hassan Nor Abdullahi holds a bachelor’s degree in health science from Benadir
University. Before his HIPS Internship, he participated in many seminars/workshops
related to public health: nutrition; water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH); digital data
collection; monitoring and evaluation; report writing; and the Expanded Programme on
Immunization (EPI) . He also worked as a volunteer in different mother and child health
(MCH) centers based in Mogadishu. During his three-month HIPS internship he
researched the diagnosis and treatment of waterborne diseases.
Khairia Mohamed Egeh holds a bachelor’s degree in Sharia and Law from the Department of Law of Amoud University. She is a young female lawyer who currently works with the Place of Legal Institution to support females in the city of Borama. During her internship at HIPS, she conducted research on the challenges facing female lawyers in Borama.
Bahja Jama Ahmed holds a bachelor of education from Barwaaqo University in
Hargeisa and holds certifications as a Montessori instructor, as a trainer of trainers, and in
project management. Currently, she is a technical advisor at the Puntland Ministry of
Education As a junior researcher she explored diverse themes encompassing education,
social development, politics, and business and published a paper titled "Addressing the
Gap: Examining the Lack of Academic Counselling Services in High Schools of
Hargeisa, Somalia." She is currently completing a paper on rebuilding education post
conflict. During her HIPS internship she conducted a research project studying gender
representation and career advancement in Somali University academia. Bahja aspires to
pursue graduate studies in a field related to peace-building in education.
Mohamed Ahmed Khalif, a recent graduate of Zamzam University of Science and
Technology, has a passion for sustainable practices and environmental conservation.
With a deep-rooted love for the land and a desire to make a difference, he dedicated his
academic and professional journey to addressing challenges in the agricultural
industry. During his internship, his extensive research of the factors confronting the
cessation of charcoal production in Mogadishu fueled his determination to find
innovative solutions for its cessation. He established a greenhouse construction company
to create eco-friendly structures that optimize crop production.
Mohamed Muhudin Ali is a junior environmental researcher at City University of
Mogadishu Research Institute where he conducts research, analyzes data, and contributes
to research reports and scientific papers. With the MSc degree in environmental science
and management, Mohamed is a dedicated professional with a solid background in
environmental research, education, and leadership. He is committed to staying updated on
advancements in the field and collaborating with stakeholders, bringing a well-rounded
skill set and a passion for environmental sustainability to his work. During his internship
at HIPS, he explored how internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Mogadishu coped in
response to food shortages.
Ayan Mohamed Omar holds a bachelor’s degree in health science with an exceptional focus on midwifery from Benadir University. Before her HIPS internship, she worked as a midwife at Yerdmile Specialist Hospital and the Dharkenley maternal and child health (MCH) center. During her internship at HIPS, she studied the challenges facing health center midwives in Mogadishu, Somalia.
Safiya Jama Omar holds a bachelor’s degree in Sharia and Islamic studies from East
Africa University Bossaso. She also has an intensive diploma in nursing and midwifery from Sanaag Nursing and Midwifery Institute based in Badhan district, and she has
worked as a nurse midwife at private and public hospitals in Bosaso and Badhan. During
her internship at HIPS, she studied factors contributing to malnutrition in pregnant
mothers in Bosaso.
Mohamed Nur Ali holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and mental science from Mogadishu University. He is a creative with years of experience and success in program management, project implementation, and community outreach for mission-oriented organizations. He developed public outreach initiatives involving or targeting diverse institutions that included government departments and communities and developed strong advocacy networks. He has strategic leadership and decision-making skills, a global perspective on cultural issues, and the ability to thrive in demanding work environments. During his HIPS internship he studied the impact of investment on economic growth in Mogadishu, Somalia.
Hussein Mohamed Iyaye holds a bachelor’s degree in public health from Hope University and a postgraduate diploma in law from Mogadishu University. He also holds a personal growth and development certificate from the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) network. During his HIPS internship he studied the role of civil society in peace-building in Somalia.
Fardowsa Mohamud Wehliye holds a bachelor’s degree in marine science and fisheries from the City University of Mogadishu and a master’s degree in fishery technology and management from Istanbul University, Turkey. Before her HIPS internship, she was a project coordinator with the Secure Fisheries program of One Earth Future, a fisheries data collector, and a research assistant at City University and One Earth Future.
Muna Yusuf Hussein is a recent graduate of Nugaal University in Las Anod with a
degree in economics and Islamic banking and a diploma in computer application. Before
her HIPS internship, she worked as an intern at ADRA Somalia, part of the Adventist
Development and Relief Agency. During her HIPS internship at Heritage Institute, she
studied the effect of the Las Anod conflict on the education system.
Nasra Mohammed Ahmed recently graduated from Jamhuriya University of Science
and Technology with a degree in computer applications. She has a strong foundation in
programming, software development, and data analysis. She is also skilled in video
editing, network design, and CCTV monitoring. During her internship at HIPS, she
studied simulated phishing attacks to assess end-user susceptibility to cybersecurity
threats in Somalia.
Mahad Mohamud Abdirahman holds a bachelor’s in public administration from Galkayo University where he wrote his thesis on factors affecting local government tax revenue collection in the Galkayo district. Before his HIPS internship, he was a teacher at Mustaqbal Primary and Secondary School in Galkayo. During his internship, he studied how to increase the number of enrolled students in Galkayo schools.
Muhiim Mohamoud Adam holds a bachelor’s degree in the laboratory from the University of Burco. She also has a diploma in nursing from Burco Institute and a diploma in the English language from the Universal Institute of Technology and Languages. During her internship at HIPS, she researched the challenges and opportunities related to girls’ early marriage in Burco.
Shirwa Yousuf Adan holds the degree of LLB (bachelor of laws) from the University of Hargeisa, He has worked on various initiatives to promote gender equality and empower marginalized communities. He has worked with Plan International as a data collector and has worked in project management, and community engagement. During his internship at HIPS, he studied the challenges and prospects of implementation of international humanitarian law in the Las Anod conflict.
Abdulrahim Mohamud Ali recently graduated from Jazeera University’s Department of Civil Engineering. He works as an assistant lecturer at Jazeera University where he is improving his communication skills. He also works as an independent contractor, providing clients with building designs and other services. He became an intern at Talosan Engineering Consultant, where he supervised ongoing projects.
Omar Ahmedqani Hussein holds a bachelor of economics degree from Simad University and an English certificate from the Institute of Modern Languages and has completed the Responsible Leadership on Transparency and Good Governance from Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). He also has certificates in strategic planning, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills from the Oxford Home Study Centre (OHSC). During his internship at HIPS, he studied the rise of coffee shops in Mogadishu.
Internships of 2022
Abdulahi Jimale Said holds a double bachelor’s degree in marine science, fisheries and
computer science from East Africa University. He has worked in tropical fishing and
holds the Food and Agriculture Organization’s badge for Ecosystem Approach Fisheries
Management. During his internship, Abdullahi conducted a study about the experiences
of artisanal fishermen in Bossaso. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in
computer and network security.
Abdikarim Ahmed Elmi is an economist and accountant. He holds a bachelor’s degree in
economics and management science from Plasma University-Mogadishu. He also has a
certificate in Principles of Financial Accounting and Computerized Accounting.
Abdikarim worked with the HIPS finance and logistics team. He is currently pursuing
the professional certification (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants – ACCA.
Bashir Yusuf Adam holds a Bachelor of Law degree from Mogadishu University. Bashir worked at the Youth Association for Aggregation and Development of Law and the Ogaal Legal Library. During his internship, he investigated the impediments to establishing the Judicial Service Commission in Somalia.
Ahmed Mohamed Yusuf graduated from City University of Mogadishu with a degree in marine science and fisheries. Ahmed is the executive director of the Somali Society for Marine Conservation. He is an advocate for marine environment conservation and has worked as a volunteer doing fish landing data collection in the Lido fishing community in the Abdiaziz district of Mogadishu. He also participated in coastal monitoring and protection activities and in mangrove nursery development. At HIPS, he researched the socioeconomic situation of the Lido fishermen. Ahmed is excited about pursuing a career in marine science and fisheries.
Ramla Abdisamad Salad is a recent graduate from Jamhuriya University of Science and Technology in Mogadishu with a bachelor’s degree in computer science. She majored in software development and has skills in video editing, graphic design and report design. She also has a diploma in web development from Jamhuriya Technology Solutions (JTECH). She conducted her graduation research thesis on identifying and tracking criminals using machine learning and surveillance cameras. During her internship, Ramla explored the reasons for drug use among young people in Mogadishu and the consequences. Ramla is currently a freelancer software developer based in Mogadishu.
Faiza Abdi Hashi holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and management science from Benadir University. During her internship, Faiza explored the impact of waterlogging on city roads and surrounding communities in Mogadishu. Faiza is preparing to study for a master’s degree in international relations in Turkey.
Amina Ahmed Mohamoud is a social worker and social activist based in Garowe. She holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from Puntland State University and has certificates in project management, research methodology and report writing. At HIPS, Amina conducted a research project to identify and analyze the role of women’s empowerment in the prevention of gender-based violence.
Hamdi Mohamed Elmi holds a bachelor’s degree in public health from Hiiraan University. She has worked in wash, nutrition, hygiene promotion and malnutrition affairs in Baladwayn. During her internship, she researched the effect of the dumping of sewage into the Shabelle River in Beledweyne.
Hamda Abdirashid Ali holds a bachelor’s degree in public health from Amoud University. During her internship, Hamda conducted research on the challenges and responses of caring for mentally ill people. She is currently working at Amoud University as a research assistant, providing support to research projects in multiple focus areas.
Rahma Yusuf Ali holds a double degree from Burao University in community development and international relations. Rahma worked as a field monitor for the Human Rights Center in Burao and volunteered at a child protection project for the Candlelight organization. She also taught English at the Burao Institute for the English Language. At HIPS, Rahma researched the barrier to female academics in higher education in Burao, Somaliland.
Saabirin Abdiqadir Hirsi holds a bachelor’s degree in public health from Simad University of Mogadishu. She volunteered at Dr. Sumait Hospital (Simad University Hospital) and gained valuable medical experience. She has a passion for research into health issues in Somalia. During her time as an intern, Saabirin researched the important role played by health workers in addressing malnutrition in children.
Ali Hussein Adan holds bachelor’s degrees in business administration and public health along with work experience of more than nine years with local and international humanitarian organizations, in the private sector and as a lecturer at Galkayo University. Ali is also the author of two books: Qorshee Noloshaada (Plan Your Life) and Lataliyaha Shaqodoonka (Guide for Employment). During his internship, he studied how local radio stations contributed to conflict resolution and peacebuilding in Galkayo. Ali is pursuing his master’s degree at Kampala University.
Rowda Mohamed Ibrahim holds a bachelor’s degree in midwifery from Nugal University in Las-Anod. She works with local and international NGOs and at the Referral Hospital in Las-Anod. During her internship, she researched the availability of healthcare services for low-income children in the Laascanod district.
Khalif Abdiaziz Muhamed has a bachelor’s degree in social work from Jigjiga University. He has worked with the Danish Demining Group (DDG). During his internship, he carried out a research project into the admissibility of hearsay evidence in law and practice in the Fafan zone high court.
Abdirahman Abdirisak Ahmed holds a bachelor’s degree in veterinary medicine from Somali National University. During his internship, he carried out a research project into the prospects and pitfalls for livestock insurance providers in Mogadishu.
Internships of 2021
Faisal Nor Ali holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Somali National University (SNU) where he also worked as a Teacher Assistant. During his internship at the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies, he provided support for various research projects in all stages of development. Currently, he is a graduate student at Van Hall Larnstein University in the Netherlands, pursuing a degree in Management of Development with a focus on Disaster Risk Management. In addition to his studies, Faisal is a researcher at the Heritage Institute where he contributes to the African Cities Research Project in Mogadishu, which is a collaboration between the University of Manchester and the Heritage Institute.
Abdikalik Mohamed Osman is a recent graduate from the City University of Mogadishu with a Bachelor of Arts in political science. He has previous experience working as a research assistant and data collector for organizations such as Nordic International Support, Somali Gender Equity Movement, and TANA Copenhagen Consultancy. During his internship at the Heritage Institute, he conducted a research project on the “Role of Somali Youth in Building Peace.” He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Economic Policy & Planning at Mogadishu University in Somalia.
Eman Jama Ibrahim holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration from East Africa University in Bosaso, Somalia. She has gained valuable experience working as a research assistant with various NGOs operating in Bosaso. During her internship at the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies, Eman conducted a research project that aimed to explore the level and nature of youth political participation in Bosaso, Puntland.
Fatuma Mohamed Mire holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration from Kismayo University. During her internship at the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies, she conducted a research project that aimed to explore the possibilities for developing Gobweyn as a tourist destination. The research aimed to understand the potential for tourism development in Gobweyn and to identify opportunities for promoting the area as a tourist destination.
Hafsa Ali Abikar is a recent graduate from Mogadishu University with a Bachelor of Science in International Relations. She has prior experience working with different institutions, including universities in Mogadishu. During her internship at the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies, she conducted a research project that aimed to investigate the strategies employed by university graduates from Mogadishu Universities in dealing with unemployment.
Hoda Kadar Hassan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration from Amoud University. She has gained experience working as a community care assistant for Nagad Network. During her internship at the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies, she conducted a research project that aimed to understand the factors that contribute to high rates of youth unemployment in Borama and to provide recommendations for addressing the issue.
Hassan Ali Hassan holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Galkacyo University, Somalia. He is an active peace advocate and a member of the Madasha Isdhexgalka Nabada (Peace and Integration Forum) in Galkayo.Hassan Is persuing his masters in Lincoln University in Malaysia. During his internship at the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies, he conducted a research project that aimed to investigate the role of youth in building sustainable peace in Galkacyo, Somalia.
Kaltun Osman Ahmed holds a degree in Business Administration, with a specialization in Management, and a degree in Social Work from Burao University. She has experience working as a social worker and poverty reduction assistant at Solidarity Youth Voluntary Organization (SOYVO) in Somaliland. During her internship at the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies, she conducted a research project that aimed to explore the challenges faced by women in participating in parliamentary and local elections in Somaliland.
Mohamed Dhaqane Ali is a recent graduate from the University of Southern Somalia (USS) in Baidoa with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration. He also holds a Diploma in Math and English courses from Ramadan Private School in Dagahalay, Kenya. He has experience working as an English teacher at Al-Azhar Modern Academic in Baidoa, Somalia. During his internship at the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies, he conducted a research project that aimed to explore ways to improve the quality of education in Baidoa, Somalia.
Mohamed Osman holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Nairobi, Kenya and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Saskatchewan, Canada. He also has a Diploma in Carpentry (Part-time Apprenticeship) from the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology, Canada and a diploma in Business Management from the University of Nairobi, Kenya. During his internship at the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies, he conducted a research project that aimed to investigate the role of TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) in the stability and reconstruction of Somalia.
Nasra Abdulkadir Abdirahman holds a Bachelor of Law (LLB) degree from Puntland State University (PSU) in Garowe, Somalia. She is a trained lawyer and advocate for women’s and children’s rights, known for her public speaking and defense of human rights. With extensive experience in the field, she has worked at PUWLA (Puntland Woman Lawyers Association), Nugal Prosecution Office, PSU Legal Aid, Puntland Attorney General Office, and IDLO (International Development Law Organization). During her internship at the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies in 2021, she conducted a research project that aimed to examine the experiences of women who won local elections in Puntland in 2021. The research aimed to understand the barriers and challenges faced by women in participating in political processes and to provide recommendations for addressing these issues.
Raqia Abdulkadir Osman holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the City University of Mogadishu, Somalia. She also has a certificate in accounting software from Client Care, and a computer certificate from the Somali Computer Institute. Raqia has prior work experience as an administrative assistant at the Horn Institute for Peace and Development. During her internship at the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies, Raqia conducted a research project aimed to understand the underlying factors that lead to school dropout among teenagers in Mogadishu and to provide recommendations for addressing these issues.
Ridwan Jama Aye holds a Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration from Amoud University. He has a strong background in volunteer work, having served with various organizations in Borama, such as the Somali Red Crescent Society as a Communication Officer and the Somaliland National Electoral Commission as a Supervisor. During his internship at the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies, Ridwan conducted a research project that aimed to explore the perceptions and challenges that university students in Borama faced during the shift to online learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sagal Ahmed has a Bachelor of Law from the University of Hargeisa, an Academic Writing certificate from North Star College, and a Human Resource Management certificate from the University of Hargeisa. She worked In UOH as lecturer assistant and human right center In Hargaisa as human right violations monitor,She also has experience conducting research, having completed a project on the “Perceptions of Legal Professionals on the Right to Fair Trial” during an internship at the Heritage Institute.