Zamzam University of Science and Technology (ZUST) demonstrates a strong institutional commitment to the advancement of SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being, through education, healthcare training, research, and partnerships. The University believes that sustainable development in Somalia depends on a healthy, well-informed, and resilient population. Therefore, health and well-being are integrated into its academic programs, community initiatives, and policy collaborations.
Health Education and Awareness
ZUST organizes annual health and wellness campaigns that promote preventive care, hygiene, nutrition, and mental health. One major initiative, the Mental Health and Well-Being Campaign, was conducted in partnership with the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) and SOS Somalia, focusing on working mothers, students, and university staff. The campaign provided counselling sessions and public lectures on stress management and emotional wellness. Additionally, Public Health Week featured lectures, exhibitions, and free medical screenings, while nutrition and hygiene awareness sessions reached hundreds of students and nearby communities. These programs help normalize discussions about mental and reproductive health and encourage healthy daily practices.
Maternal and Child Health Programs
ZUST, in collaboration with the ZAAD Foundation, implemented a midwifery capacity-building program that trained 37 working midwives from public and private hospitals. The training enhanced skills in maternal and neonatal health, safe delivery, and emergency obstetrics, directly contributing to the reduction of maternal and infant mortality. This initiative supports national goals under SDG 3.1 on maternal health improvement.
Community Health Outreach
Through its Faculty of Health Sciences, ZUST regularly deploys student volunteers to rural and urban communities for health outreach sessions on disease prevention, nutrition, hygiene, and reproductive health. These community engagements allow students to apply their learning while serving marginalized populations. The outreach work strengthens ZUST’s vision of linking classroom education with social impact.
Collaborations with Health Institutions
ZUST partners with several health institutions and organizations to improve health systems and access to care. These include:
- ZAAD Foundation – Maternal and midwifery training.
- NRC and SOS Somalia – Mental health awareness and psychosocial support programs.
- Local hospitals and clinics – Internship and clinical placements for students in nursing, midwifery, and medicine.
Through these collaborations, the University contributes both human capital and research-based expertise to the Somali healthcare system.
Student Health and Reproductive Education
The University conducted an awareness campaign on reproductive health and drug prevention in partnership with local NGOs. The campaign provided counselling and information services for students, emphasizing reproductive rights, healthy relationships, and substance abuse prevention. The Student Affairs Office ensures access to counselling services for mental health, academic stress, and personal well-being. Confidential support channels and peer mentorship programs promote emotional resilience and a supportive campus culture.
Research and Innovation for Health
ZUST faculty and students undertake research on public health, community well-being, and social determinants of health. Projects include studies on malnutrition, mental health awareness, and access to healthcare in post-conflict environments. Research findings are published in the ZUST Journal of sustainable agriculture and presented at national conferences to inform health policy and professional practice. These efforts link higher education with evidence-based national development planning.
Institutional Health and Safety
ZUST enforces strict campus health and safety standards, including sanitation, emergency preparedness, and fire-safety protocols. All campus food vendors are inspected for hygiene, and first-aid services are available across facilities. The University regularly reviews its occupational safety practices to ensure a healthy learning and working environment.
Monitoring and Evaluation
ZUST measures progress against SDG 3 through key indicators such as:
- Number of students and professionals trained in health programs.
- Number of community outreach activities and participants.
- Health awareness campaigns conducted annually.
- Research outputs and partnerships in health-related fields.
Progress data is published annually in the ZUST SDG Progress Report, available through the university’s official website under the Sustainability and SDG Impact section.
Impact Summary
- 37 midwives trained in safe maternal delivery techniques.
- Hundreds of students and staff benefited from mental health and wellness initiatives.
- Regular community outreach conducted in rural areas to raise awareness about hygiene, nutrition, and preventive health.
- Increased partnerships with national and international health organizations.
Conclusion
Zamzam University of Science and Technology’s initiatives under SDG 3 reflect a holistic approach that connects education, research, and community service. The University’s programs enhance the well-being of its students and surrounding communities while building national capacity for a healthier Somalia. By publishing progress reports and maintaining active partnerships, ZUST demonstrates transparency, accountability, and its long-term commitment to achieving Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3) as part of the global 2030 Agenda.