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In a region where opportunities are often defined by circumstance rather than potential, moments of genuine intervention stand out. The recent scholarship initiative by Telesom is one such moment—quiet in execution, yet profound in impact.
By fully funding the university education of 36 students—primarily orphans and individuals living with disabilities—this initiative does more than support education. It challenges a deeper, more uncomfortable reality: that too many capable young people in Somaliland are left behind, not because they lack talent, but because they lack access.
This is where the significance of Telesom’s decision lies.
Beyond Charity: A Statement of Values
What makes this initiative noteworthy is not just who it helps, but how it helps. The selection was strictly merit-based. Out of 131 applicants across Somaliland, only the highest-performing students were chosen, even though the company had initially planned to support more.
This was not charity rooted in sympathy—it was opportunity grounded in fairness.
In societies struggling with inequality, such an approach matters. It sends a clear message: excellence should be recognized, regardless of background. And more importantly, it reinforces the idea that vulnerability should not disqualify ambition.
A System That Often Falls Short
The truth is, many of these students should not have needed corporate intervention in the first place.
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“These students are divided into two groups – orphans and students with disabilities,” said Mustafa Adan, Head of the Public Relations Office of Telesom. “They were selected on merit, those with the highest test results were given priority.”
Also, one of the officials of Telesom said “This is an investment for yourselves and the future of Somaliland”.
Mother’s prayers answered
One of the most emotional moments of the event came when an orphan student told his story.
“My mother raised all six of us without a father,” he said. “She used to remind me that I don’t have someone to support me like other children, but she also told me that education is my path and she prayed for me every day. I see today that God has accepted her prayer and Telesom has paid for my university education.
His speech reflected the silent struggle of countless families across Somaliland and the life-changing power of opportunity when it finally comes.
Another student who held back tears simply added: “Telesom, thank you for giving us responsibility and caring about our future.”
A partnership based on education
This scholarship program did not emerge overnight. It was established in a long-standing partnership between the Telesom company and the University of Hargeisa, which lasted for more than 15 years.
“Since 2007, Telesom has been supporting our students with scholarships,” said an official at the University of Hargeisa. “In the past, this was mainly focused on the Islamic Sharia sector, but now the support has expanded through this important new plan.”
Telesom officials said that this commitment reflects the company’s responsibility towards the community it serves.
“As a national company, it is our duty to support those in need,” said one of Telesom’s representatives.
Access to higher education should be a structured pathway, not a rare privilege dependent on external generosity. Yet for orphans and students with disabilities in places like Hargeisa and beyond, the system often fails to provide that pathway.
Financial barriers, limited institutional support, and social challenges create a reality where potential is frequently wasted.
Telesom’s initiative, while commendable, also highlights this gap.
The Power of a Single Opportunity
Listen to the voices of the students, and the weight of this moment becomes clear.
For one orphaned student, the scholarship was not just financial relief—it was the fulfillment of his mother’s lifelong hope. For another, it was a rare moment of recognition in a life shaped by struggle.
These are not isolated stories. They represent a broader truth: when even one door opens, it can change the trajectory of an entire life.
And when multiplied across dozens of students, the impact extends far beyond individuals—it begins to reshape communities.
Corporate Responsibility or National Necessity?
Telesom’s long-standing partnership with University of Hargeisa shows that this is not a one-time gesture. It reflects a sustained commitment to education and social responsibility.
But it also raises an important question:
Should private companies be carrying this responsibility alone?
If education is truly the foundation of national development, then broader institutional frameworks must exist to ensure that no capable student is left behind. Governments, universities, and civil society all have a role to play.
A Model Worth Following
Still, in the absence of perfect systems, leadership is defined by action—and this is where Telesom sets an example.
It demonstrates that impact does not always require grand declarations. Sometimes, it begins with a simple but powerful decision: to invest in people who have been overlooked.
A Future Built on Inclusion
The 36 students supported this year represent more than individual success stories. They are proof of what becomes possible when opportunity meets determination.
If Somaliland is to build a stronger, more inclusive future, it must expand such opportunities—not as exceptions, but as expectations.
Because real change does not begin with policy alone.
It begins with belief.
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