Bonhomie, amazing camaraderie, verve and enthusiasm encapsulated in overflowing patriotism marked the 8th colorful celebration of Ethiopian Nations, Nationalities and Peoples’ Day at Arba Minch University’s Main Campus on December 7, 2013. Click here to see Pictures of the celebration.
Amid the electrifying atmosphere, university students across all campuses simultaneously put up glitteringly pulsating cultural dance and song performances representing the cultural splendor of their respective regions, its ethos and overflowing love for its people and country. Panel discussions were also organized on the key issues faced by the people at all the campuses.
‘‘Before two decades situation in Ethiopia was so tough that it has almost led the nation towards disintegration, but thanks to some committed leaders who sacrificed their lives to bring nation back on the track. They have passed their baton, now it’s our turn to take it further,’’ said the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr Agena Anjulo.
Dr Agena was speaking during the celebration of Ethiopian Nations, Nationalities and Peoples’ Day at Main Campus. He appreciated one and all for putting up a united front for the grand event.
He further said, ‘‘Passing through the difficult times, people of Ethiopia, have learnt to live peacefully and happily thus legitimizing the secular ethos of the nation created by the federal system that shapes the future of the nation.
With strong Constitution in place, Ethiopia has evolved a dynamism wherein all kinds of differences or be it minor or major conflicts are peacefully and democratically resolved without any difficulties.
Exhorting the gathering, he said, ‘‘Though we are celebrating this momentous occasion, yet there are things to be done and promises to be fulfilled to better our tomorrow. Therefore, we shouldn’t take things lying down, but gear up for the greater challenges ahead. Primarily, we need to strengthen our economy to generate more jobs for youth and become a self-reliant nation.’’
The program began with the Corporate Communication Directorate Director, Mr Genene Gedebu Feleha, urging the students, ‘‘This day belongs to you, because each one of you hail from Nations, Nationalities and Peoples’ Region and this gathering is the true reflection of our profound unity. So, you must learn to recognize the plurality of our culture and be tolerant.’’
University students from different streams tastefully draped in cultural attire representing Amhara, Oromia, Tigray, Gambela, Gamo Gofa and other regions mesmerized the audience with their breath-taking dance moves and soulful songs.
Especially, student groups representing Guraghe and Oromia cultures flourishing spear and truncheon in their hands stole the show with their impeccable performances. Their music was so tantalizing and alluring that even Dr Agena and Dr Negash couldn’t hold themselves back and started shaking their legs with the students.
The program was interspersed with regional cultural songs by a troupe. Scientific Director of Institute of Technology, Dr Negash Wagesho and Dr Dawit on behalf of Vice President for Administration and Development also spoke on the occasion.
A faculty member from Law School, Mr George Alaso, in his speech, urged the students to read and understand the Constitution in right spirit. Hinting at the ongoing diaspora and illegal immigration of Ethiopian to other nations and conflicts arising out of it, he said, ‘‘Everything can be resolved in the framework of the law.’’
He said by generating jobs within our country, we can prevent such situation. He emphasized the need of the civic and ethical education for the creation of better society.
The enthusiasm, positive energy and verve displayed at Main Campus were duly replicated at all the campuses on the same day, with different kinds of entertainments programs organized by the students.
By Philips Joseph
