‘‘This day provides an opportunity to recognize the immeasurable achievements of women and their contribution to the society. She shapes up our life; her nurturing prepares us to face the challenges and make life better. Thus she deserves to be revered and any efforts to undermine her esteem would be thwarted, said Academic Affairs Vice President, Dr Agena Anjulo. Click here to see the Pictures.

Speaking at ‘International Women’s Day’ celebration organized at Main Campus recently, Dr Agena briefing the gathering about the historical importance of the day, reiterated, ‘‘Ethiopia firmly believes in, ‘nation progresses when you empower women’ and we will continue to facilitate equal opportunity by stamping out discrimination of any sort.’’
The program was organized by Gender Affairs Directorate in collaboration with Corporate Communication Directorate, under the theme, ‘Empowering women is empowering the community’. Many important slogans and statements of renowned world leader like Kofi Annan, like, ‘‘There is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women,’’ ‘‘Women is the real architect of the society,’ splashed across the hall.
The program began with Munit introducing the guests. Apprising the gathering with the historical background of ‘March 8’, she said, ‘‘The idea to celebrate ‘International Women’s Day, first arose at the turn of the century, which was the period of expansion and turbulence, booming population grown and radical ideologies.’’
Giving the chronological account, she added, ‘‘It’s now an official celebration Day across the world. The new millennium has witnessed a significant change and attitudinal shift in both women’s and society’s thoughts about women’s equality and emancipation.’’
Later, one of the faculty members in his presentation oriented the crowd about the Day with its history significance and rationale. He informed Ethiopia being the signatory of UN Charter, way back adopted policies on gender equality, women participation in development etc.
Dr Agena and female Vice President for Business and Development, Rahel Kitila, cut the ceremonial cake. The program was interspersed with poem recital and skit presentation on women’s plight by university students.
Interesting debate on ‘The Affirmative Action’ by the students of Law School regaled the audience. One section favoring the theme presented their point of view while those have dissent had their justification.
Thereafter, Dr Agena, Dr Nigussie and Rahel Kitila honored some of the female students, teachers, administrative and support staff for their outstanding achievements in their respective arena.
Dr Damtew, representing university president Dr Feleke Woldeyes, reminded the gathering about Ethiopia’s commitment in proactively involving women in nation’s development. Ethiopia was quick in abiding by the United Nation’s agreement to acknowledge the participation of women folks in country’s progress.

(By Corporate Communication Directorate: Philips Joseph)