The U.S. Embassy renews support for Ethiopian higher education as part of int’l education week

Addis Ababa, November 20, 2024 (FBC) – The U.S. Embassy in Ethiopia, in partnership with the Ethiopian Academy of Sciences (EAS), marked International Education Week 2024 on November 18 and launched a $522,000 grant to the Ethiopian Academy of Sciences.

To support the transition of Ethiopian public universities to autonomous governance, this initiative will build on the success of the first phase, which focused on Addis Ababa University, and will assist leading public universities develop key framework policy documents, the Embassy said in a press release issued on Tuesday.

On the occasion, Ambassador of the U.S. to Ethiopia, Ervin Massinga, highlighted the role of education in fostering global understanding and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to strengthening educational ties with Ethiopia.

“Education bridges cultural divides, fosters mutual respect, and builds shared commitment to progress,” said Ambassador Massinga, adding, “International students enrich our campuses with diverse perspectives and experiences.”

It was indicated that International Education Week emphasizes the importance of educational exchange, providing opportunities to expand horizons and build international connections.

In 2023, over 3,000 Ethiopian students studied in the U.S., further strengthening the U.S.-Ethiopia educational partnership, according to the Embassy.

The Embassy also mentioned that during the International Education Week, it held “Studying in the U.S.” information sessions for students at Jimma and Mekelle Universities, facilitating panel discussions at the American Spaces on “International Partnerships in education to prepare students for a global workforce in a rapidly changing world,” and hosting a virtual panel discussion with Study Texas Systems.