My name is Dr. Dahir Moalim Muhudin Mohamed, a Paediatrician from Mogadishu, Somalia. I pursued a Master of Medicine in Paediatrics and Child Health at Kampala International University (KIU), starting in January 2022 and completing in June 2025.

As a medical doctor deeply passionate about child health, I chose KIU because of its strong reputation in East Africa for producing excellent clinicians. I wanted to further specialize in paediatrics and become an academic leader in Somalia.

KIU provided the right environment for both clinical training and leadership development, and above all, the chance to successfully conduct and defend my master's research on dysglycemia among children with severe acute malnutrition.

My university journey was a transformative experience. The most defining moment was being elected Chief Resident of the Paediatrics Department, a role I held from 2024 until graduation. I was actively involved in leadership throughout my time at KIU — starting as a class representative and later becoming Chief Resident. I also played a key role in organizing seminars and creating academic forums for Somali paediatric trainees in Ishaka. These experiences gave me the chance to lead, coordinate academic activities, and mentor fellow junior residents.

I am proud of my professional growth and skills in paediatric care, research, leadership, and communication. I am most proud of successfully conducting and defending my master's research, and I now feel well-prepared to take on academic and clinical roles back home and internationally.

Of course, the education journey was not without its challenges. Balancing clinical duties, research, leadership responsibilities, and personal life was tough. However, through effective time management, support from colleagues, and guidance from supervisors, I was able to stay on track and succeed.

As KIU celebrates 25 years, I want to congratulate the university for 25 years of academic excellence. I thank the administration and staff for building a strong medical education system. To alumni, I say: keep representing KIU with pride and make an impact wherever you go.

Before joining KIU, I had heard about the university's academic standards, but after experiencing it myself, I can confidently say KIU provides high-quality medical training and an inclusive, supportive environment. Studying with people from different countries, cultures, and religions has made me more open-minded and adaptable. I've learned to respect diversity and communicate effectively across cultures.

Looking ahead, post-graduation, I plan to return to Somalia and contribute to pediatric care and medical education. I also hope to publish my research, pursue a PhD, and continue working toward international recognition in paediatrics.

By Dr. Dahir Moalim Muhudin Mohamed, Paediatrician from Mogadishu, Somalia.