‘I Needed Advanced Knowledge to Support National Development’ — Ibrahim Mohamed Warsame on Choosing KIU

By Isaac Akugizibwe

KIU, Main Campus — Ibrahim Mohamed Warsame will join hundreds of graduands at KIU’s 32nd graduation ceremony on 29th, November, 2025, at the Western Campus in Ishaka, where he will celebrate the completion of a Master’s degree in Project Planning and Management.

When his name is read and the degree conferred by the university chancellor, Warsame will mark the fulfillment of a mission he set out to accomplish at Uganda’s leading private university.

“I chose KIU because I wanted to strengthen my skills in project planning, public management and development work,” he said.

“As a civil servant working at the Office of the Accountant General in Somalia, I needed advanced knowledge to better support national development and public financial management.”

Warsame is among the beneficiaries of the 50% tuition waiver offered for all postgraduate programs, a gesture he describes as life-changing.

“It reduced financial pressure and allowed me to fully commit to my studies,” he said. “It gave me the freedom to focus, participate and excel academically without constant financial stress.”

He leaves KIU grateful for the growth he has achieved, particularly in leadership, confidence and analytical thinking.

“The multicultural learning environment strengthened my cultural intelligence, teamwork and ability to manage diverse groups — skills that are essential for my work in Somalia’s public sector and in project management,” he said.

Warsame recalls his favourite moments at KIU as working with classmates from across Africa, exchanging ideas, engaging in group discussions and forming friendships he says he will always cherish.

Because of the demands of graduate study, he did not take on major student leadership roles, serving instead as class coordinator.

“I facilitated communication between students and lecturers, supported academic progress, organized class activities and helped maintain unity among students from different cultural backgrounds,” he said.

After graduation, Warsame plans to continue contributing to good governance and public service in Somalia.

“I hope to take on larger roles in project management, public financial management and development programs that promote accountability, transparency and national progress,” he said.

He encouraged continuing students to take advantage of the opportunities at KIU.

“Stay focused, work hard and believe in your dreams,” he said. “Build strong networks and stay disciplined. Success comes from consistency and commitment.”

Warsame also expressed gratitude to several individuals and institutions that supported his academic journey.

“I sincerely express my gratitude to the Office of the Accountant General – Somalia for their unwavering financial and moral support throughout my studies,” he said. “I also thank my supervisors and colleagues whose encouragement motivated me to pursue this master’s program.”

He further appreciated Dr. J.E. Shibi, KIU’s Acting deputy vice chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, “whose guidance and support helped me overcome several challenges,” as well as his lecturers “for their dedication and continuous support.”

“Lastly, I deeply appreciate my classmates for their teamwork, friendship and the positive learning environment we shared,” he said.