Somalia: Puntland Sees Nearly 10% Increase in Students Taking Unified Exams in 2025

GAROWE, Puntland — The Puntland Ministry of Education and Higher Learning announced Saturday that 23,768 students are registered to sit for the unified 8th and 12th grade exams this year, representing a 9.61% increase compared with 2024.

Last year, 21,685 students took the exams, meaning an increase of 2,083 candidates in 2025. The ministry attributed the rise to ongoing efforts to improve education quality and expand equal access to learning opportunities across the Federal State in northeastern Somalia.

The exams are being held at 151 centers across 33 districts. Puntland’s Vice President, Ilyas Osman Lugatoor, officially inaugurated the unified exams on Saturday Morning, May 24.

Officials said the growing number of exam candidates reflects increasing public confidence in the government’s education system. The ministry emphasized its commitment to providing quality education services, particularly in remote areas and underserved communities.

This year, the ministry also expanded exam centers and strengthened measures to ensure transparency and integrity throughout the exam process.

Passing the 8th grade exam typically allows students to advance to secondary school, while success in the 12th grade exam opens doors to university studies.

Parents, teachers, security officials, and local communities were praised for their support during the exam period.

The ministry pledged to continue enhancing education in Puntland to further increase student enrollment and improve education standards in the future.

GAROWE ONLINE