Abdirizak Abdirahman, now a Global Roving Finance Advisor with the Norwegian Refugee Council, began his remarkable journey at SIMAD University in 2005. His path, which has taken him from a student of accounting to a respected international finance expert, highlights SIMAD University’s profound impact on its students and their professional lives.
A Foundation of Excellence
Abdirizak’s story is a testament to the academic rigor and practical opportunities provided by SIMAD University. Upon enrolling in the Faculty of Accounting, Abdirizak earned his diploma in 2007 and quickly found himself working two jobs—a junior accountant for a private business and later for a local NGO. His strong work ethic and commitment led to his appointment as an assistant lecturer and chief cashier at SIMAD University in 2008, while still pursuing his degree. By February 2009, Abdirizak had graduated and assumed greater responsibilities, teaching subjects such as auditing and governmental accounting while managing the university’s finances.
Investing in Human Capital
SIMAD University’s commitment to developing its human capital played a pivotal role in Abdirizak’s growth. The university offered him the opportunity to pursue further education, which he accepted by enrolling in an MBA program at Kampala University. This enabled him to balance advanced studies with his teaching role at SIMAD, equipping him with the expertise to elevate his career. The institution’s dedication to nurturing talent was not just about academic success but about creating leaders capable of making a global impact.
From Somalia to the World
In 2012, Abdirizak transitioned to the international development sector, taking on a role as a finance manager for an NGO operating in Somalia. His leadership skills and expertise in finance saw him rise quickly, eventually managing large-scale programs in conflict-affected regions such as Iraq and Sudan. His work in these challenging environments, where he managed budgets exceeding $70 million, showcased the practical skills and resilience he developed at SIMAD.
Today, Abdirizak serves as a Global Roving Finance Advisor, where he mentors and trains finance managers across multiple countries. His ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and his expertise in advising diverse teams reflect the solid foundation SIMAD University provided.
A Legacy of Competitiveness and Resilience
One of the key lessons Abdirizak attributes to SIMAD is the competitive edge and resilience it instilled in its graduates. He recalls an interaction with a colleague who was surprised to learn that Abdirizak had studied in Somalia, given the high quality of his expertise. This reflects SIMAD’s success in preparing its students to excel in global markets, often surpassing the expectations of peers from more stable environments.
Despite studying during a time of intense conflict in Somalia, Abdirizak and his peers were taught to remain hopeful and driven. SIMAD University instilled in them a strong sense of responsibility and independence, traits that have remained with him throughout his career.
A Community of Support and Opportunity
What truly sets SIMAD University apart is its focus on community and continuous support. Abdirizak highlights the strong alumni network that connects graduates across various sectors, creating a sense of family and mutual support. This network has been invaluable in building professional relationships and providing opportunities long after graduation. For many, SIMAD University is more than an academic institution; it is a community that fosters lifelong connections.
Today, SIMAD’s vision continues through initiatives like the Center for Entrepreneurship, which nurtures local businesses and encourages graduates to become job creators rather than job seekers. This shift in mentality reflects the university’s role in transforming Somalia’s economic landscape by empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders.
Building a Better Future for Somalia
Abdirizak’s journey is just one example of the countless success stories emerging from SIMAD University. The institution’s non-profit foundation model, which reinvests in its students and faculty, has cultivated a generation of leaders who are driving positive change in Somalia and beyond. Through its focus on human capital development, practical education, and community-building, SIMAD has helped to lay the groundwork for a brighter future in Somalia.
Today, Abdirizak’s daughter is a student at SIMAD, continuing the legacy of excellence and opportunity that the university offers. For Abdirizak and many others, SIMAD University is not just where their careers began—it is the foundation of their success, and its impact continues to shape the future of Somalia’s development.
