A university in Hargeisa, Somaliland, built to train the nurses, midwives, doctors and health professionals the country needs.
Edna Adan University, situated in Hargeisa, Somaliland, is a distinguished academic institution dedicated to the advancement of higher education. With a firm commitment to intellectual growth and to building the professional capacity of Somaliland students, the university serves as a beacon of educational excellence in the region. It offers comprehensive, rigorous programs across many disciplines, giving students the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their chosen fields.
The university's overarching goal is to develop a highly skilled, competent workforce that makes meaningful contributions to the local community and beyond. By providing a platform for academic and personal development, Edna Adan University shapes individuals who not only excel in their professions but also embody a commitment to ethical practice and community service.
- 14Bachelor & master programs
- 10K+Students
- 100+Skilled teachers
Our founder
Edna Adan Ismail
Nurse, midwife and hospital founder · Former Foreign Minister of Somaliland
Edna Adan Ismail founded the Edna Adan Maternity Hospital and this university to train the health workers her country needs. Students learn from practising clinicians and gain hands-on experience with real patients at the hospital.
Her work for mothers, newborns and nursing education has been recognised around the world, from the Templeton Prize to the Gusi Peace Prize.
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Our mission
To cultivate professionals capable of delivering high-quality services in diverse sectors, and to empower students to become agents of positive change.
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How we teach
A combination of academic rigour, practical training and a focus on holistic development, with clinical experience at Edna Adan Hospital.
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Our graduates
Academically proficient, socially conscious and culturally sensitive professionals serving Somaliland and the wider region.
Milestones & recognition
A few recent moments, each told in full on our news page.
Exchange visit to Taiwan
A memorandum of understanding signed with Fu Jen Catholic University Hospital for clinical training, resource exchange and global health development.
Training and outreach in Burao
Edna Adan University and Hospital launch an intensive training program and outreach in Burao.
2025 Mother Teresa Memorial Award
Awarded to Dr. Edna Adan for a lifetime of compassionate service.
International Nursing Leadership Award
Presented to Dr. Edna Adan in Riyadh.
2025 Gusi Peace Prize International
Recognising Dr. Edna Adan's work for health and humanity.
2025 White Coat Ceremony
Medical students mark the start of their clinical journey.
Templeton Prize
Edna Adan Ismail honoured with the Templeton Prize.
Postgraduate programs launched
New master's programs open, including Midwifery and Nursing.
Partners & collaborations
Universities, hospitals and organisations we have trained, taught and worked with.
- Fu Jen Catholic University HospitalTaiwan · clinical training and resource-exchange MOU
- Basel University HospitalSwitzerland · obstetric emergency training
- Cardiff UniversityUnited Kingdom · address by Dr. Edna Adan
- World Health OrganizationMeeting with the Director-General
- Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for HumanityVisit and collaboration
- Danish representativesVisit to the university and hospital
- WFSA, SAFE & Ministry of HealthSafe Operating Room and Safe Obstetrics course
- U.S. EmbassyVisit by Ambassador Richard Riley
Our deans & coordinators
Each program is led by a dean or coordinator you can contact directly.
Awoke Derbie, PhD
Program Coordinator, Master of Medical Microbiology
Prof. Alemayehu Bayray Kahsay
Get in touch
Prospective students, parents and partners are welcome to contact us. Call or WhatsApp +252 63 6355777, or email ednaadanuniversity@gmail.com.
For regular updates on the university's activities and achievements, follow @ednaadanuniversity on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.
Ready to start your journey?
Talk to our registration office about programs, admission and fees.
Or call +252 63 6355777 · Registration office, Iftin Road, Hargeisa, Somaliland