Islamic movements have attracted increasing scholarly and policy attention, particularly in the aftermath of 9/11 attacks. Multiple factors have contributed to their rise, among which education has played a central role. In the Somali context, two prominent Islamic movements; Al-Islah (reform) movement, established in 1978 and Al-Ittihaad (Islamic union), movement founded in 1980 have been especially influential in the education sector, with Al-Islah emerging as the more prominent actor. This article examines how Al-Islah movement constructs and sustains collective identity through education. Anchored in Melucci’s conceptualization of collective identity as a dynamic process shaped by cognitive, relational, and emotional dimensions, the study explores how Al-Islah institutionalizes education to produce shared meanings, foster solidarity, and strengthen organizational cohesion. It further considers the role of education as a potential mechanism for peace building in Somalia. The establishment of Islamic educational institutions such as schools and universities functions not only as a means of religious instruction but also as a central place for articulating shared interpretations of Islam and cultivating a sense of belonging. These institutions generate social networks that reinforce collective identity, facilitate mobilization, and sustain long-term member commitment. Based on qualitative interviews with founders, scholars, and civil society actors, the study demonstrates that education serves as a critical relational and symbolic resource through which Al-Islah maintains unity. By foregrounding education, the article contributes to the broader debates on identity formation and the role of educational institutions in shaping Islamic movements in fragile and fragmented environments.

Authors:
Shoki Hayir, Radboud University, Netherlands

About the Presenter(s)
Shoki Hayir is an external doctoral researcher, who is interested in politics, social change, and social movements. His project examines Somalia’s Islamic movements, with emphasis on the relationship between Islamic ideology and collective identity.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

Bookmark