In the journey toward nation-building, fostering a positive mindset is essential. A society that prioritizes shared values and moral behavior lays a strong foundation for a thriving community. By nurturing a culture of care and responsibility within families, it is possible to cultivate a generation that values unity, tolerance and respect. This mindset not only strengthens familial bonds but also empowers individuals to contribute meaningfully to society. Accordingly, as we strive to ensure a brighter future, embracing these principles will help us leave a legacy of compassion and integrity for generations to come. Together, it is possible to build a nation rooted in positivity and mutual support, paving the way for sustainable growth and harmony.
Recently, the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs organized a significant platform dedicated to the generational handover from senior citizens to the younger generation. This event brought together a number of dignitaries who shared their invaluable experiences and insights. The discussions highlighted the importance of passing down knowledge, values, and traditions to ensure a brighter future for posterity. This initiative not only honored the contributions of senior citizens but also aimed to inspire the youth to embrace their roles in building a cohesive and prosperous society.
Alemtsehay Mekonnen, a Professor of Cell and Human Physiology and a dedicated faculty member of the Department of Biology at the College of Natural Sciences, Addis Ababa University, recently addressed a group of young Ethiopians on the importance of balancing family life with the pursuit of remarkable achievements. Drawing from her own life experiences, she emphasized five key principles that can guide individuals toward realizing their dreams.
These principles—passion, hard work, self-confidence, time management, and resilience—are essential values that should permeate all our endeavors. Alemtsehay urged the new generation to embrace these ideals, recognizing that the path to success is often fraught with unexpected challenges. She reminded her audience that while not everything unfolds as planned, perseverance and dedication can lead to fulfilling and meaningful lives.
Commander Meskerm Biru, who dedicated 38 years to the federal police and is now enjoying her retirement, emphasized the importance of having a purpose in life. Initially hired as a health assistant, she has since earned an MBA from a prestigious university.
Currently, Meskerm manages a family business focused on dairy farming. Reflecting on the hardships she and her husband faced, she said: “Though we encountered various challenges, through our collective perseverance, we overcame them all and succeeded.” Today, their dairy farm is thriving, with 22 milk cows currently in production.
Meskerm is also proud of her three children—two sons and a daughter. Her sons have achieved significant milestones, becoming an engineer and a medical doctor, respectively.
Even as a pensioner, she is motivated to explore additional business ventures, aiming to inspire the younger generation on how to contribute to nation-building.
She believes that family is the foundation of all success, urging the importance of protecting familial bonds and fostering a supportive environment. “My husband is a wonderful supporter, and I am a dedicated wife, committed to caring for my family.”
Meskerm concluded her notion with a hopeful vision for Ethiopia, encouraging unity and mutual assistance as the keys to navigating future challenges.
Founder and CEO of the Ethiopia Addiction Free Generation Indigenous Organization, Jara Semma said that the time for action is now. He highlighted the troubling societal trends affecting society, noting that the world is undergoing rapid changes.
Jara emphasized that there is no single ‘standard’ family structure, nor has there ever been. For laws and policies to effectively support families and address the needs of their members, they must be adaptable, evolving alongside societal changes.
Families serve as the foundational building blocks of society, essential for the functioning of communities and economies. They provide a space for sharing resources, caring for the sick and elderly, and nurturing the next generation. In this context, families foster love and affection, playing a crucial role in shaping each member’s sense of identity and belonging.
Jara also urged Ethiopia’s youth to reject hate and discrimination, stressing that a sense of brotherhood and sisterhood is vital for national progress. He encouraged young people to cultivate a positive mindset rather than succumbing to negativity. He observed that many in the younger generation now find life too easy and feel entitled to comforts that previous generations had to earn through hard work. As birth rates decline, he pointed out that the daunting task of raising children becomes even more challenging in a world where the future seems appear deceptively secure.
To ensure a bright future for the next generation, Jara advocates for a return to basic, established values. He called on teachers and religious leaders to serve as role models, imparting moral guidance to the youth. He believes that Ethiopia should construct a unifying symbol—a statue that resonates with all citizens—to foster unity across diverse backgrounds.
Ultimately, Jara emphasized that achieving prosperity for Ethiopia requires collaboration and mutual respect among its people.
Assistant Prof. Genene Gedebu, a member of the Health and Social Affairs Standing Committee of the House of People’s Representatives, emphasized the vital role of protecting families and shaping a sustainable future for the common good. He advocates for creating a positive environment that fosters family well-being, which is essential for societal development.
To achieve this, Genene highlighted several key strategies: prioritizing policies that support families, promoting education, and encouraging responsible stewardship of resources. He asserted that these measures are crucial for ensuring a thriving community.
He stated that, as Members of the House of People’s Representatives, they are committed to translating these objectives into actionable initiatives on the ground, reinforcing their dedication to the well-being of families and the overall progress of society.
Patriot Tsega Mesele, at the remarkable age of 107, emphasizes the importance of valuing all types of work among the youth. He stressed that young people should refrain from any form of conflict, urging all Ethiopians to prioritize the preservation of peace.
Reflecting on his personal experiences, Patriot Tsega shared that he served as a watchman at the Ministry of Education for two years and spent 12 years teaching languages at Amha Desta Elementary School in Addis Ababa. In addition, he worked as a bookbinder and participated in various film projects.
He urged the youth to draw inspiration from the deeds of their forebears and remain steadfast in their commitment to defending their motherland. His insights serve as a reminder of the vital role that dedication and peace play in building a stronger nation.
BY MENGISTEAB TESHOME
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 26 JUNE 2025
