Addis Ababa University (AAU) held the 21^st International Conference of Ethiopian Studies with the theme of “Persistence and Resilience in Ethiopian Studies: Global Context and Domestic Developments” at the Institute of Ethiopian Studies, Ras Mekonnen Hall, on September 28, 2022.

Sahle Work Zewde, President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, in the occasion said that AAU has continued as the leading and veteran higher learning institution in Ethiopia playing a crucial role in advancing knowledge and producing educated human resources who have played key roles in different sectors of the country.

According to the President, the purpose of the conference is to connect worldwide scholars who would like to share ideas and discuss issues related to Ethiopia.

She said, “This kind of gathering is a platform for cross fertilization of ideas to get to know better about Ethiopia and the region. It also constitutes a bridge between Ethiopians from across the globe with our researches and students.”

Professor Tassew Woldehanna, President of AAU, in his welcoming message said that the service the University has rendered in the training of highly educated and skilled manpower and professionals in various key areas of developments is unprecedented.

He added that the roles and the positive impacts of AAU on the country’s progress in various spheres of development are far-reaching.

“AAU in its ten years strategic plan has aligned itself with the current development priorities of the country, the region and the world especially with sustainable development goals and the Africa 2063 agendas.”

As stated by Prof. Tassew, in the past few years, AAU has accomplished major achievements which enabled it to stand First in East Africa and Six in Africa as a whole, according to the Times Higher Education ranking-2022.

Takele Merid (PhD), Director at Institute of Ethiopian Studies, in his introductory remark said that the International Conference of Ethiopian Studies is one of the prestigious and unique forums that brings a sense of belongingness and solidarity among scholars of the world on Ethiopian Studies and, of course, the Horn of Africa.

Ministers and higher officials the Government, ambassadors of different countries to Ethiopia and other honourable invited guests attended the conference which is intended to last on the 1^st of October 2022.

Reporter: Theodros Shewangizaw

Photographer: Fikremariam Beyene

Editor: Abraham Girmay