In an era where technology is reshaping industries and economies, Somalia is taking a bold step toward digital innovation with the launch of the 3D Cohort Program. Designed to equip Somali youth with cutting-edge 3D design and fabrication skills, this initiative is more than just a training program—it is a movement towards self-sufficiency, creativity, and industrial development. By bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, the program empowers participants to create tangible solutions that contribute to Somalia’s economic growth and techno-based prototypes evolution.
A Revolutionary Learning Experience: Program Structure
The 3D Cohort Program spans eight weeks, combining online and in-person learning to ensure accessibility and hands-on expertise. This blended approach maximizes learning outcomes while accommodating participants from diverse backgrounds.
- Online Learning: A robust digital curriculum enables participants to gain foundational knowledge in 3D modeling and fabrication from anywhere in Somalia.
- On-Campus Sessions: Hosted at FabLab Mogadishu, these weekly in-person sessions provide hands-on training, expert mentorship, and access to advanced 3D printing technologies, allowing participants to bring their digital designs to life.
By integrating flexible learning with real-world application, the program ensures that students gain the skills and confidence to innovate and build solutions relevant to Somalia’s local industries.
Somalia’s First 3D Alumni Network: Fostering Innovation and Growth
Graduates of the program will form Somalia’s first-ever 3D Alumni Network, a prestigious collective of skilled innovators committed to driving technological advancement. This network will:
- Symbolize Progress: Mark a significant step forward in Somalia’s digital fabrication landscape.
- Encourage Innovation: Inspire a culture of creativity and technological problem-solving.
- Boost Economic Development: Equip professionals with in-demand skills that contribute to local industries and manufacturing sectors.
This alumni network will serve as a cornerstone for future advancements, encouraging continuous learning and professional collaboration among members.
FabLab Mogadishu: Pioneering Digital Fabrication in Somalia
As Somalia’s first digital fabrication hub, FabLab Mogadishu plays a crucial role in the success of the 3D Cohort Program. The lab provides:
- Cutting-Edge Equipment: State-of-the-art 3D printers and fabrication tools.
- Expert Mentorship: Guidance from industry professionals specializing in digital manufacturing.
- A Collaborative Ecosystem: A thriving space for students, professionals, and tech enthusiasts to exchange ideas and work on groundbreaking projects.
Through FabLab Mogadishu, participants don’t just learn about 3D printing—they experience the entire design-to-production pipeline, gaining practical expertise essential for innovation.
The Grand Launch: A Milestone for Somali Technology
The launch of the 3D Cohort 1 Program marked a significant milestone in advancing digital and technological education in Somalia. The event was graced by esteemed guests, led by Mr. Abdullahi A. Abdirahman, the Deputy Rector for Institutional Development & Planning, who officially inaugurated the program.
The overwhelming response to the program—evidenced by over 450 applications—underscored the growing demand for digital skills in Somalia. However, to ensure a high-quality learning experience with personalized mentorship, only the most dedicated and promising candidates were selected for Cohort 1.
Notably, even those who were not selected attended the launch, eager to engage with the thriving 3D technology community and prepare for future opportunities. The event highlighted the increasing enthusiasm for innovation and digital transformation, setting the stage for a new generation of tech-driven professionals in Somalia. During his speech, Mr. Abdullahi A. Abdirahman delivered a compelling and motivational address, emphasizing the importance of skill acquisition and continuous learning. He encouraged young people to equip themselves with the necessary competencies to thrive in the digital economy, highlighting the transformative potential of technology in shaping their future.
A Competitive and Industry-Relevant Program
The 3D Cohort Program is not just another training course—it is a strategic initiative designed to position Somalia as a player in the global digital economy. The program targets:
- University Students seeking to enhance their technical skills and employability.
- Professionals aiming to upskill and explore opportunities in digital manufacturing.
- Tech Enthusiasts passionate about innovation and problem-solving through 3D design.
By focusing on project-based learning, the program enables participants to build real-world applications, ensuring that their knowledge is practical and industry-relevant.
What’s Next? The Road Ahead for Cohort 1
With the program officially underway, participants will embark on an intensive journey involving:
- Structured Online Training: Step-by-step mastery of 3D design and fabrication.
- Hands-On Application: Real-world projects that challenge students to think critically and innovate.
- Mentorship & Networking: Learning from experienced professionals and connecting with like-minded innovators.
- Final Showcase: Presenting their projects to industry leaders and potential investors at the program’s conclusion.
The goal is clear—to produce technologically skilled individuals capable of transforming Somalia’s industrial landscape and contributing to global innovation.
A Transformational Step for Somalia’s Tech Future
The 3D Cohort Program represents a bold step towards digital transformation in Somalia. By empowering young professionals with cutting-edge skills, iForge and FabLab Mogadishu are laying the foundation for a new era of technological progress.
With such overwhelming demand and enthusiasm, this is just the beginning. The future of 3D printing, design, and digital fabrication in Somalia is bright, and this initiative marks the start of an exciting journey towards a more innovative, self-sufficient, and technologically advanced nation.
