ADDIS ABABA – Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie emphasized the need for skilled and knowledgeable citizens to achieve Ethiopia’s comprehensive prosperity in the years ahead.
The Mayor made these remarks yesterday during the graduation ceremony of 5,180 students from the Addis Ababa Labor and Skills Bureau, who completed training in various fields.
In her opening address, Adanech highlighted that Ethiopia’s development and prosperity hinge on the contributions of citizens who are not only skilled but also ethical and knowledgeable. “This is why the current government prioritizes technical and vocational education,” she added.
She urged the graduates to apply their skills, expertise, and knowledge towards constructive activities that contribute to national development. Adanech pointed out that the success of many developed countries lies in their effective utilization of trained students, making them exemplary on the global stage.
The Mayor also noted that the Addis Ababa City Administration is engaged in various initiatives, including improving the image of the metropolis and fostering citizen-centered development. Extensive efforts are being made to enhance the city’s appeal for both tourism and residents. The graduates are expected to continue this productive work, with the Mayor pledging ongoing support to inspire further contributions from citizens.
Tiratu Beyene, the Jobs and Skills Bureau with the rank of Deputy Mayor, noted that the 5,180 graduates specialized in 22 different fields. The graduates, who completed levels two to five in their respective areas of study, received training with a strong emphasis on practical engagement, with 70% of the curriculum focused on hands-on experience. The training programs spanned from one to three years, with six fields classified under polytechnics and eight under colleges.
Tiratu stressed the importance of fostering a generation skilled in technology and trades for national development. He advocated for an education and training policy guided by innovative ideas to advance the sector.
Additionally, Tiratu mentioned the city’s efforts over the past five years to establish Centers of Excellence in vocational and training fields, which are crucial for registering and educating large numbers of citizens. Currently, more than 100,000 short training sessions and over 40,000 regular training programs are offered annually.
Hana Dejene, a graduate from General Wingate TVET College in Accounting and Finance, expressed her confidence gained through the practical focus of her course. “The training has prepared me to handle challenges, whether I work as a self-employed individual or as an employee,” she shared with The Ethiopian Herald.
BY MESERET BEHAILU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 23 AUGUST 2024
