Understanding the role of mindset in social development and interpersonal growth is crucial for both individual and societal progress. Recognizing this importance, Bureo University and Hanuun University jointly organized a significant event to explore the impact of mindset on personal success and broader social transformation. The event aimed to deepen the participants' awareness of how their perspectives shape development and to provide guidance on fostering a mindset that leads to success and positive change.
The event featured distinguished speakers, including Dr. Husein A. Bulhan, PhD, and Dr. Abdifatah H. Daud, PhD, with Dr. Abdirashid Mohamoud serving as the moderator. The session concluded with remarks from the Chancellor of the University of Bureo, Dr. Essa Nur. Conducted virtually, the discussion lasted for three hours and included a highly interactive question-and-answer session that allowed the audience to engage directly with the speakers.
Dr. Husein A. Bulhan focused on the current social mindset of Somalis and its influence on the country's development. He analyzed how historical, cultural, and psychological factors have contributed to societal stagnation and underdevelopment. According to Dr. Bulhan, collective beliefs and attitudes significantly impact a nation's progress. He emphasized the necessity of shifting societal perspectives to embrace innovation, critical thinking, and unity to overcome the barriers that hinder development. He also discussed the role of education, leadership, and social cohesion in reshaping the Somali mindset towards a more progressive and constructive future.
On the other hand, Dr. Abdifatah H. Daud provided insights into the importance of an individual's mindset in achieving personal and professional success. He elaborated on the concept of a growth mindset—a belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort, learning, and perseverance. Dr. Daud highlighted how adopting a growth-oriented perspective can enhance resilience, goal-setting, and overall well-being. He provided real-life examples of individuals who transformed their lives through a shift in mindset, reinforcing the idea that success is largely influenced by one's mental approach and adaptability.
The event also included a dynamic question-and-answer segment, where attendees had the opportunity to pose their inquiries to both scholars. Participants raised questions about practical strategies for fostering a growth mindset, overcoming societal limitations, and applying these concepts in everyday life. The discussion encouraged self-reflection and critical thinking among the attendees, helping them connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications.
As the session came to an end, Dr. Essa Nur provided a comprehensive summary of the key points discussed. He reiterated the necessity of both individual and collective mindset shifts to drive meaningful progress. Dr. Nur emphasized that development, whether personal or societal, begins with a transformation in thought processes, attitudes, and behaviors. He encouraged attendees to take proactive steps in implementing the insights shared during the session in their personal lives and communities.
Overall, the event was a valuable platform for intellectual exchange, shedding light on the power of mindset in shaping personal growth and societal advancement. It underscored the importance of fostering a mindset that promotes resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning, ultimately contributing to a more developed and progressive society.
World Mental Health Day 2024 was observed on October 10th under the theme, "It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace." The event was organized by Hanuun University and aimed to raise awareness about workplace mental health and well-being. The event included a recitation of the Quran, guest speakers, a seminar, a panel discussion, and a question-and-answer session.
The event commenced with a recitation of the Quran, setting a solemn and reflective tone for the discussions that followed.
Several distinguished guest speakers shared their insights on various aspects of workplace mental health.
Dr. Liban Ahmed Hersi, MD, Deputy Director of the Department of Mental Health at the Ministry of Health, Somaliland, delivered the keynote speech titled "Mental Health Status in Somaliland: Focus on Workplace Well-being." He provided an overview of the current mental health landscape in the country, highlighting key challenges faced by employees and employers alike. He emphasized the importance of integrating mental health support into workplace policies and encouraged organizations to adopt strategies that promote psychological well-being among employees.
Ms. Hodman Caydarus Maxamed, a psychologist at Sirta Maanka Center, spoke about the importance of mental health in the workplace. She elaborated on the impact of stress, anxiety, and burnout on employees’ productivity and overall health. She stressed the need for creating supportive work environments where employees feel valued and heard.
Mr. Sardiid Muhumed Jamac, Deputy Director of Hargeisa Orphanage Center, addressed the audience on the importance of Hanuun University’s focus on mental health. He commended the university for taking the initiative to organize such an event and called for more educational institutions to follow suit in addressing mental health challenges among students and staff.
Mr. Abdirashid Ismail Kaahin, former Deputy Minister of Education, discussed the role of Islam in improving and maintaining mental health. He spoke about the spiritual aspects of mental well-being and how faith can serve as a source of resilience and coping. He urged workplaces to integrate faith-based support systems for employees who rely on spiritual guidance during difficult times.
Ms. Xalimo Abdi Nuur, Director of the National Organization for Women and Child Development (NOW), underscored the importance of organizing mental health awareness events. She commended the university for its efforts and encouraged it to continue advocating for mental well-being. She highlighted the need for collaborative efforts between organizations, government bodies, and educational institutions to address mental health challenges effectively.
Mr. Abdirahman Ibrahim Hassan, Director of Hospitals at the Minister of Health Somaliland, spoke about the Ministry of Health’s initiatives related to mental health. He emphasized the improvements in Somaliland’s mental health sector and detailed the steps the Ministry had taken to provide better mental health services. He called for increased funding and resources to further enhance mental health care across the nation.
Following the guest speaker session, Dr. Abdifatah H. Daud, PhD, led a seminar on workplace stress management. He discussed the dual nature of stress—how it can enhance motivation and performance or lead to burnout and decreased productivity. Dr. Daud shared practical strategies, including mindfulness techniques, time management skills, and maintaining work-life balance. He emphasized recognizing stress triggers and implementing proactive measures for well-being. Attendees gained valuable insights and actionable tools to manage stress effectively, fostering a healthier and more productive work environment. The seminar reinforced the importance of balancing pressure to optimize performance and job satisfaction.
A panel discussion followed the seminar, moderated by Mohamed Abdi Sheekh (Ilig), Chairman of MMTV. The discussion brought together experts from various fields to address key mental health challenges in Somaliland's workplace environment.
The event concluded with a question-and-answer session, where attendees had the opportunity to engage with the panelists and speakers. Participants asked insightful questions about workplace mental health policies, stress management techniques, and ways to promote mental well-being at work. The discussions provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and knowledge-sharing.
World Mental Health Day 2024 at Hanuun University was a resounding success, bringing together experts, professionals, and community members to discuss the importance of mental health in the workplace. The event raised awareness, provided practical solutions, and encouraged organizations to take proactive steps toward creating a healthier work environment.
By addressing key issues such as stress management, disability inclusion, gender-based challenges, and policy improvements, the event paved the way for future initiatives focused on mental well-being. The speakers and panelists emphasized the importance of continued efforts, collaboration, and education in ensuring a mentally healthy workforce in Somaliland.
Hanuun University was praised for its leadership in advocating for mental health awareness, and attendees expressed their hope that similar events would be organized regularly to keep the momentum going. The event reinforced the message that mental health is a priority that must be integrated into every workplace for a more productive, inclusive, and supportive society.
Hanuun University, in collaboration with the Somaliland National Human Rights Commission (SLNHRC), organized Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 under the theme “Stronger Together: Building Mentally Healthy Communities.” The initiative aimed to raise public awareness of mental health, promote a human rights–based approach to mental well-being, and strengthen coordination among key mental health stakeholders in Somaliland.
The week combined a high-level in-person opening event with a series of expert-led public seminars, engaging participants from government institutions, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, healthcare providers, religious leaders, civil society organizations, and community members.
Mental Health Awareness Week officially commenced with a comprehensive in-person event in Hargeisa. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from government ministries, NGOs, human rights institutions, universities, health professionals, and community organizations.
The opening session featured keynote speeches from institutional leaders and invited guests, emphasizing the importance of mental health, the protection of human rights for people with mental illnesses, and the need for multi-sectoral collaboration. Representatives from various stakeholder groups also delivered remarks, sharing institutional perspectives and highlighting existing gaps and priorities in mental health services.
This was followed by a panel discussion involving a psychiatrist, a religious scholar, and a human rights advocate. The panel explored critical issues such as:
A particularly powerful component of the in-person event was the testimony of a person with lived experience of mental illness, who courageously shared her personal journey, including experiences of stigma, social exclusion, and negative treatment within her family and community. Her contribution provided an essential human perspective and deepened participants’ understanding of the real-life impact of stigma and lack of awareness.
The session concluded with open dialogue and audience participation, allowing attendees to ask questions, share reflections, and propose actions.
A key outcome of the in-person engagement was a collective agreement to initiate a Mental Health Stakeholders Coordination Group. This group aims to strengthen collaboration among government institutions, NGOs, academic bodies, health professionals, human rights organizations, and community representatives. The coordination group will support information sharing, joint advocacy, and the development of coordinated responses to mental health needs in Somaliland.
Title: Breaking Barriers: Expanding Access to Mental Health Services in Africa Facilitator: Dr. Jibril Moussa, MD, MSc – Psychiatrist This lecture examined structural barriers to mental health services and explored opportunities for expanding access through policy reform and community-based care.
Title: Understanding and Addressing Intergenerational Trauma
Facilitator: Dr. Abdifatah H. Daud, PhD – Clinical Psychologist
The session focused on intergenerational trauma, its long-term impact, and culturally grounded strategies for healing and breaking cycles of trauma.
Title: Drug Addiction: A Global Perspective
Facilitator: Dr. Benjamin Swart, MD, FASAM – Psychiatrist
This lecture addressed substance use disorders as public health challenges, highlighting prevention, treatment approaches, and stigma reduction.
Title: Introduction to Community Mental Health and the Status of Somaliland Mental Health
Facilitator: Dr. Yacquub Aw Adan, MD, PhD – Psychiatrist and Clinical Pharmacologist
The session introduced community mental health concepts and examined the current mental health landscape in Somaliland.
Title: The Role of Families and Caregivers in Mental Wellness
Facilitator: Dr. Erin Ferenchick, MD – Family Physician
This lecture emphasized family support, caregiver well-being,s, and practical strategies for supporting loved ones with mental health challenges.
Title: The Role of Community in Mental Well-Being
Facilitator: Dr. Julie Radlauer-Doerfler, PhD – Public Health Specialist
The final lecture highlighted the role of community structures, social connection, and collective responsibility in promoting mental well-being.
Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 successfully created a comprehensive platform for awareness, dialogue, and collaboration on mental health in Somaliland. Through keynote speeches, stakeholder engagement, a panel discussion, lived-experience testimony, and expert-led public lectures, the initiative strengthened understanding, reduced stigma, and promoted a rights-based approach to mental health.
The establishment of a Mental Health Stakeholders Coordination Group marked a significant milestone toward sustained cooperation and coordinated action. Overall, the event laid a strong foundation for future advocacy, programming, and policy development in mental health across Somaliland.
Hanuun University organized a two-day online event to commemorate World Mental Health Day 2025, under the official theme “Climate Change, Disasters, and Mental Health: Ensuring Access to Services.” The event aimed to highlight the growing mental health impacts of climate change, disasters, and humanitarian emergencies, while advocating for equitable and sustained access to mental health services during times of crisis.
Hanuun University organized a two-day online event to commemorate World Mental Health Day 2025, under the official theme “Climate Change, Disasters, and Mental Health: Ensuring Access to Services.” The event aimed to highlight the growing mental health impacts of climate change, disasters, and humanitarian emergencies, while advocating for equitable and sustained access to mental health services during times of crisis.
The first day featured a public lecture titled “Climate Change & Mental Health 101: From Impacts to Solutions,” facilitated by Dr. Alessandro Massazza, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Senior Policy & Advocacy Advisor at United for Global Mental Health.
The lecture explored how climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation affect mental health at individual and community levels. It examined the psychological consequences of climate-related disasters, displacement, and environmental stressors, while also presenting practical solutions to reduce and adapt to these impacts. The session emphasized the importance of integrating mental health into climate, environmental, and public health policies to ensure resilience and continuity of care.
The second day consisted of an interactive panel discussion focused on access to mental health services during catastrophes and emergencies. The panel reflected a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together expertise from mental health, humanitarian response, environmental health, and social services.
Panel participants included:
Panelists discussed barriers to accessing mental health services during emergencies, including disrupted health systems, stigma, displacement, and limited resources. They also highlighted innovative and community-based approaches such as psychosocial support, task-shifting models, tele-mental health services, and cross-sector collaboration. An interactive Q&A session enabled participants to engage directly with the panelists and contribute to the discussion.
The two-day World Mental Health Day 2025 event organized by Hanuun University successfully advanced dialogue and understanding around mental health in the context of climate change, disasters, and emergencies. Through an expert-led public lecture and a multidisciplinary panel discussion, the event emphasized that access to mental health services is essential and must be safeguarded even during times of crisis.
Overall, the event reinforced the importance of policy integration, collaboration across sectors, and community-based responses to ensure accessible, inclusive, and resilient mental health care systems.