From Diploma to Degree: A New Pathway for Teachers in Somaliland
A first-of-its-kind teaching qualification in Somaliland is giving 15 teachers in Hargeisa the opportunity to progress from a Diploma in Education to a Bachelor’s degree, supported by All Saints Educational Trust and funds raised by WTI’s 2025 Big Give campaign.
The new “Diploma to Degree” pathway offers teachers who already hold a Diploma in Education a way to build on their existing qualifications. Previously, teachers in Somaliland who wanted to progress to a Bachelor’s degree would have had to start a four-year degree from the beginning, even if they already held a teaching diploma.
The new pathway recognises their existing qualification as a credit transfer, allowing teachers to build on the studies they have already completed and work towards a full Bachelor’s degree in Education.
It is the first teaching qualification of its kind in Somaliland, and WTI hopes the pilot will provide a model that can be rolled out through other institutions across the country in the coming years, supporting the continued development of the teaching profession across the country.
The 15 scholars will receive tuition and other university fees, a monthly allowance, and safeguarding training provided by WTI. After completing their studies, scholars will have the opportunity to return to pursue teaching roles in local schools in Hargeisa and regionally.
This project is part of a wider investment in teacher training across Sudan, South Sudan, and Somaliland. In 2026, 74 scholars are undertaking teacher training or further qualifications across the three countries, supported through a combination of Big Give funding and the All Saints Educational Trust.
For the scholars in Somaliland, the opportunity is about more than gaining another qualification. It creates a route to continue their education, strengthen their skills and contribute to the quality of teaching in their communities.
Building on the pilot
WTI hopes the Diploma to Degree model will demonstrate what is possible when teachers are given a pathway to build on the qualifications and experience they already have.
If successful, the model could be extended to further institutions in Somaliland in the coming years, creating more opportunities for teachers to progress their qualifications and strengthen education across the country.
This year, we’re building on this support through the 2026 Big Give campaign, which will run from 1st to 8th December. The campaign will help create further opportunities to access teacher training and build their careers in education across Sudan, South Sudan, and Somaliland. Link available soon.