Reconstructing the Campus of the Somali National University in Mogadishu: The Vision for a Park of Knowledge

The transformative potential of the nexus relating education, nature and social justice is key in fostering more equitable and inclusive societies. The regeneration project of the Gahayr Campus at the Somali National University (SNU) provides a compelling case study in this regard. It underscores the essence and critical role of educational institutions and invites reflection on how they should be designed, particularly in contexts of extreme fragility and resource scarcity. This is especially pertinent in Mogadishu, a city profoundly shaped by years of conflict and the impacts of climate change. Officially titled “Infrastructural and Strategic Strengthening of the Somali National University: Reconstruction of the Gahayr Campus in Mogadishu”, the project has been financed by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation and coordinated by Politecnico di Milano. The SNU’s current strategy responds to the urgent need for highly qualified professionals and specialists essential for rebuilding the country (Ministry of Planning, Investment and Economic Development, 2020). It envisions the provision of a safe, appropriate, accessible, and inclusive learning environment that integrates research, learning, and practical experience. Building on these strategic objectives, the project aspires to create an advanced educational space that prioritizes environmental sustainability and social resilience. Conceived as a “park of knowledge”, the masterplan adopts a holistic approach, integrating urban, landscape, infrastructure, and social dimensions. Its ultimate goal is to establish the campus as a socio-ecological infrastructure and a driver and symbol of renewal and hope for Somalia’s future.