Supporters of the proposal said Israel’s recognition of Somaliland has made the bilateral relationship an important part of the country’s modern history.
By Shula Rosen
Students in Somaliland have called on the government to add Israeli history and the history of the Jewish people to the national school curriculum following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as an independent state, saying the subject is more relevant to the country’s future than parts of the existing curriculum.
The proposal emerged during Somaliland’s national certificate examinations, where students across the territory are taking nationwide tests.
According to youth advocates, many students want greater emphasis on contemporary international partnerships, arguing that the relationship with Israel should be studied in schools instead of focusing primarily on the histories of European countries.
Supporters of the proposal said Israel’s recognition of Somaliland has made the bilateral relationship an important part of the country’s modern history.
They said students want to understand how ties between the two governments developed and the significance of Israel becoming the first sovereign state to formally recognize Somaliland.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of the Somali state.
Since then, it has operated with its own government, military, currency and regular elections, although it has remained without formal international recognition for more than three decades.
On Dec. 26, 2025, Israel became the first UN member state to recognize Somaliland as an independent country and established full diplomatic relations.
Relations between the two sides had developed before formal recognition through quiet contacts and humanitarian cooperation, including Israeli medical programs.
Since diplomatic ties were established, Israel and Somaliland have exchanged ambassadors, conducted high-level visits and expanded cooperation in trade, agriculture, technology, health care and investment.
The two governments have also increased security cooperation, including Israeli training for Somaliland’s police and military forces, while Somaliland has encouraged Israeli investment.
Students supporting the curriculum proposal said studying the history of Israel and the Jewish people would provide a better understanding of the foundations of the growing partnership between the two countries.
Youth advocates said the initiative reflects interest among students in learning more about the diplomatic relationship and its role in Somaliland’s international engagement following Israel’s recognition.
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