Branding Guidlines
Introduction
The Puntland State University (PSU) Branding Guidelines provide a clear framework for maintaining a consistent, professional, and recognizable university identity across all platforms. These guidelines ensure that PSU’s visual and verbal communications reflect its academic excellence, institutional values, and public credibility.
All staff, departments, partners, and affiliates are required to follow these guidelines when producing materials that represent Puntland State University.
1. University Identity
Puntland State University’s brand represents education, integrity, innovation, and service to society. Every visual and written communication should reinforce PSU’s role as a leading institution of higher learning in Puntland and Somalia.
Consistency in branding strengthens trust, recognition, and institutional reputation.
Official University Logo
2.1 Logo Description
The official Puntland State University (PSU) logo is an academic emblem that reflects the university’s identity, values, and national heritage. It consists of the following key elements:
- Shield:
Represents protection, integrity, and academic authority, symbolizing the safeguarding of knowledge and ethical education. - Central Presentation Stage:
The structure at the center of the logo represents a presentation stage, symbolizing learning, knowledge dissemination, academic engagement, and intellectual leadership. - Star:
Symbolizes excellence, aspiration, and achievement, while also representing Somali unity and national identity. - Somali National Symbolism:
The star integrates national symbolism, highlighting PSU’s role as a national institution contributing to education and unity. - Laurel Elements:
Represent achievement, honor, and academic success. - Official Color – Sky Blue:
Symbolizes peace, knowledge, hope, and trust, reflecting Somali heritage and academic professionalism.
Together, these elements form a unified emblem that represents Puntland State University’s mission, values, and commitment to education, innovation, and national development.
2.2 Logo Usage
- The official logo must be used on all university materials, including websites, publications, banners, certificates, and official correspondence.
- The logo must not be altered, stretched, recolored, or distorted.
- Adequate clear space must be maintained around the logo to preserve visibility and integrity.
- The logo should appear on a clean and uncluttered background.
2.3 Incorrect Usage
The logo must not:
- Be modified or redesigned
- Be used with unofficial colors
- Be placed on busy or low-contrast backgrounds
- Be combined with other logos without official approval
Typography
4.1 Official Fonts
- Primary Typeface: Used for headings, titles, and key highlights
- Secondary Typeface: Used for body text and long-form content
Fonts must be:
- Clear and readable
- Professional and academic in appearance
- Used consistently across all platforms
Avoid decorative or informal fonts in official materials.
3. Official Colors
PSU’s official color palette reflects professionalism, trust, and academic excellence.
- Primary Color: Sky Blue
- Secondary Colors: White and white supporting tones
These colors should be used consistently across all digital and print materials to reinforce the university’s visual identity.
5. Photography and Visual Style
5.1 Image Guidelines
Images used by PSU should:
- Reflect real university life, academic activities, and campus environment
- Be high quality, well-lit, and professional
- Represent diversity, inclusivity, and academic engagement
2.3 Incorrect Usage
The logo must not:
- Be modified or redesigned
- Be used with unofficial colors
- Be placed on busy or low-contrast backgrounds
- Be combined with other logos without official approval
6. Tone of Voice and Messaging
6.1 Communication Style
All PSU communications should be:
- Formal and professional
- Clear, accurate, and informative
- Respectful and inclusive
5.2 Prohibited Visuals
- Low-resolution or blurry images
- Inappropriate or non-academic imagery
- Images that misrepresent PSU values or activities
6.2 Key Messaging Principles
- Emphasize academic excellence and credibility
- Highlight innovation, research, and community impact
- Maintain consistency across all departments and platforms
7. Digital and Web Branding
7.1 Website Usage
- The official PSU logo must appear on all university web pages.
- Content must follow a structured, academic, and user-friendly format.
- Color schemes, fonts, and layouts must align with PSU branding standards.
8. Print and Promotional Materials
All brochures, banners, posters, certificates, reports, and merchandise must:
- Follow the official branding standards
- Be reviewed and approved by the relevant university authority before publication
7.2 Social Media
- Official accounts must use approved logos and visuals.
- Posts should reflect professionalism and institutional values.
- Informal language or unverified information is not permitted.
9. Compliance and Responsibility
All PSU staff, faculties, centers, and partners are responsible for complying with these Branding Guidelines. Any exception or special use must receive prior approval from the university administration or designated communications office.
Failure to comply may result in the revision or removal of materials that do not meet branding standards.