AHMED SAID: A FUTURE DOCTOR FROM SOMALIA

PHILOSOPHY OF MEDICINE: A Student from Somalia on Why Everyone Is a «Doctor» for the Planet

This year, Ahmed Said from Somalia is graduating from the Medical Institute. Yet just six years ago, he did not know a single word of Russian and at first relied on the experience of relatives and friends. Thoughtful and calm—qualities essential for a good doctor—Ahmed reflects on why he chose to continue his medical journey in Russia in this interview with Maria Khruleva.

— Tell us about your country.
- I come from Somalia, a country in East Africa located on the peninsula of the same name. On the map, our country resembles a sharp horn, which is why it is often referred to as the «Horn of Africa.»

Somalia is home to one ethnic group that speaks one language. Therefore, the country, the people, and the language are referred to by the same word. Our climate is hot. Even in winter, temperatures never drop below +15°C, and we can walk outside in T-shirts. We have all four seasons, but they are defined by alternating periods of drought and rainfall.

In my opinion, the most remarkable attraction is the Laas Geel cave complex. It draws tourists with its well-preserved ancient rock paintings. Even Egyptians come to Somalia for holidays, attracted not only by this site but also by our rich natural landscapes.

— What were you interested in before enrolling? Why didn’t you stay to study in Somalia?
- I came to Russia in 2019. By that time, I had already earned a bachelor’s degree as a Clinical Officer. This program prepares public health professionals to treat people in rural areas. However, I wanted to deepen my knowledge and move to the next level. The six-year Russian program, recognized internationally as the MBBS standard, became that next step for me.

— What were your expectations of Russian higher education? Have they been met?
- I had heard a lot about Russia. My uncle studied here as a military officer back in the 1970s and often said that Russian teachers are very knowledgeable. Later, a friend who graduated from Ogarev Mordovia State University recommended this university to me.

I appreciate the educational process in Russia. However, like any medical student, I feel there is never quite enough practical experience. I am eager to apply my skills in real clinical practice.

— What kind of doctor do you hope to become?
- A gastroenterologist. I have a strong understanding of the digestive system and pay close attention to nutrition in general. Throughout my six years in Russia, I have always cooked for myself—for example, Somali pilaf.

— What is your dream?
- I dream that there will be no conflicts in my country or in any other country—that there will always be peace, stability, and unity on Earth. Every person should understand that, in this sense, they are a «doctor» for the planet.

We thank Sergey Yanin, Senior Translator of the International Relations Office, for his assistance in preparing this interview.

The article was published in the «Voice of Mordovian University» newspaper (No. 1 — January 30, 2026).