SORDI's Education Research Gains International Recognition: Featured Dataset by Purdue University

The Somali Research and Development Institute (SORDI) is delighted to announce a prestigious achievement that highlights the quality and impact of Somali education research on the global stage. Our collaborative study, “Somalia Education Evaluation Reports,” has been selected as a Fall 2025 Featured Dataset by the Purdue University Research Repository (PURR).

A Milestone for Somali Research

This selective recognition by one of America’s leading research universities acknowledges exemplary data quality, comprehensive metadata, and thorough documentation that align with international standards for open, accessible research. For SORDI, this represents not just an institutional honor, but a testament to Somalia’s growing research capacity and our commitment to evidence-based education development.

About the Research: Bar ama Baro Evaluation

The featured dataset comprises a comprehensive two-year external evaluation of the Bar ama Baro (BAB) Accelerated Basic Education program in Somalia. This rigorous study examined program effectiveness, learning outcomes, and sustainability lessons for Somalia’s education sector.

Why This Matters for Somalia

Accelerated education programs like Bar ama Baro are crucial for Somalia, where conflict and displacement have left many children and youth without access to formal education. This research provides:

  • Evidence-based insights into what works in Somalia’s unique educational context
  • Data-driven guidance for policymakers and education practitioners
  • Documentation of effective approaches that can be scaled across the country
  • International validation of Somali education research quality
  • A foundation for future education investments and policy decisions

Partnership and Collaboration

This achievement exemplifies the power of collaborative research. SORDI worked alongside distinguished partners:
Partner Institutions:
• Purdue University’s Evaluation and Learning Research Center
• Makerere University School of Public Health
• ResilientAfrica Network

Access the featured dataset and reports here:

https://purr.purdue.edu/publications/4899/1

Building Somalia’s Research Future

This recognition demonstrates that when Somali researchers collaborate with international partners and maintain rigorous standards, we can produce work that stands alongside the best research globally. This achievement:

  • Elevates Somalia’s profile in international education research
  • Attracts future research partnerships and funding
  • Inspires other Somali research institutions
  • Builds confidence in locally-led research
  • Demonstrates the value of investing in Somali research capacity

Looking Forward

SORDI remains committed to conducting high-quality research that serves Somalia’s development priorities. This recognition motivates us to:

  • Continue rigorous, policy-relevant research across sectors
  • Strengthen partnerships with leading international institutions
  • Develop the next generation of Somali researchers
  • Expand open access to our research findings
  • Contribute evidence that shapes effective policies and programs

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all research participants, partner institutions, team members, and the communities across Somalia who made this work possible. Special thanks to the students, teachers, parents, and administrators who participated in the Bar ama Baro evaluation—your voices and experiences are at the heart of this research