The Institute of Ethiopian Studies of Addis Ababa University inaugurated the reconstructed Ras Mekonnen Hall on August 19, 2019 which was fully funded by Japanese government and Kyoto University of Japan.

Takele Merid (PhD), Director for Institute of Ethiopian Studies of Addis Ababa University on the occasion noted that Ethiopia has been in friendly relations with many countries of the world; Japan is one of the countries with which Ethiopia has a very good, long and historic relations.

He added that the Institute of Ethiopian Studies of Addis Ababa University in the last decades created partnerships with Kyoto University in the course of which many achievements have been registered; among such achievements, joint research and disseminating research output, graduate students training and capacity building can be mentioned. “The restoration of Ras Mekonnen Hall, Institute of Ethiopian Studies is one of the witnesses of the results of such fruitful effort,” said Dr. Takele.

His Excellency Mr. Matsunaga Daisuke, Ambassador of Japan to Ethiopia in his remarks said that Addis Ababa University is the leading intellectual powerhouse for the entire Africa as well as the leading center of excellence in Ethiopia. The restoration of this hall was funded by Japan grant assistance for cultural grassroots project; which will benefit not only the students but also members of the academia and visitors of the museum.  “This building also serves as the core stone for the promotion of the two countries,” added the ambassador.

Professor Yamagiwa Juichi, President of Kyoto University, on his part said, “We continue to celebrate our collaboration and make platform for excellent future scientific research between the two Universities.

Personnel who contributed for the restoration of the hall were recognized during the ceremony.

Netsanet Merete August 21, 2019