Datasets.zip

<b>Evaluating Community Driven Public Higher Education in Somalia through community Mobilization Grassroots Leadership and Institutional Capacity</b>Background: The collapse of Somalia's central government in 1991 disrupted state-run higher education. In underserved regions, such as Abudwak, community initiatives have emerged to address the demand for public higher education. Objective: This study investigated the establishment of the Somali National University Galmudug Branch (SNU-Galmudug), formerly known as Galgudud University (GU), through grassroots efforts. It evaluates the roles of community mobilization, local leadership, and participatory governance in the development of regional public higher education in post conflict Somalia. Methods: A mixed-method approach was employed using structured questionnaires. Data were collected from 300 individuals representing diverse stakeholder groups, with some providing optional, open-ended feedback. Additionally, 15 in-depth interviews were conducted with key informants. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS, whereas qualitative feedback was subjected to thematic analysis. Results: The findings indicated that local leadership, community ownership, and diaspora engagement are crucial in establishing a university. Stakeholders emphasized the importance of grassroots mobilization, while challenges included limitations in infrastructure and academic resources. Conclusion: This institution enhanced educational access, social cohesion, and regional resilience. Community-driven public higher education models can serve as alternatives in fragile contexts by providing pathways for educational inclusion, supported by effective policies and hybrid funding mechanisms.<br><br>