University Days
Ethiopia’s universities are undergoing a profound reform program and this demands intense debate. Inviting scholars and the wider public under the motto “Engineering Tomorrow”, the University Days, organized by the Addis Ababa University Faculty of Technology and supported by ecbp, were a unique chance to foster this debate.
The University Days, held from November 15th to 18th 2006, was the first event of its kind to discuss the ongoing university reforms. During several workshops, Ethiopian and international experts as well as students explored how Ethiopian universities had to be transformed to prepare graduates for their future careers and contribute to the country’s development. On the last day of this pioneering event, the university opened its doors to the public. Both campuses of the Faculty of Technology invited the wider community to get to know the fascinating world of engineering during the Public Day, a festival of higher education.
The University Days were an exceptional chance to discuss issues that are vital for Ethiopia’s future: How can the education of young professionals in the field of technology be improved? How can Ethiopian universities, and technology contribute to a better tomorrow for all citizens? What are the changes necessary for Ethiopia to break out of the circle of poverty and take the path to rapid and sustainable development? The event was a platform to exchange ideas about new forms of learning and education and helped to build networks among national and international universities. At the same time, the University Days were a unique opportunity to promote the role of institutions of higher education in society and show their importance for the country’s future.
Far from being limited to academic discussions, the University Days were also a cultural and a family event. At the art exhibition “Engineering Tomorrow”, opened on the first day of the University Days, eleven Ethiopian artists displayed their artworks. The paintings, sculptures and photographs all dealt with the role of technology in the coming years and invited visitors to reflect on how the future could and should be. The Public Day on Saturday 18th was a day for all generations, where every family member could play, learn and enjoy in a relaxed atmosphere and find out about the Faculty of Technology and university life. It is this openness that will contribute to the recognition of universities’ importance and create awareness of their role for creating a better future for Ethiopia.