Ethiopia Reaffirms Pan-African Commitment Through Expanded Regional Scholarships

January 2, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia has reaffirmed its commitment to Pan-African solidarity and people-to-people diplomacy by expanding regional scholarship opportunities for students from neighboring African countries.

The announcement was made during a New Year welcoming ceremony at Bahir Dar University for newly arrived international students, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Nebiyu Tedla, Director General of the Public Diplomacy Directorate General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said Ethiopia’s continued provision of full scholarships represents a strategic investment in regional cooperation, human capital development, and long-term stability.

Ambassador Nebiyu emphasized that education remains a central pillar of Ethiopia’s foreign policy, serving as a powerful tool for fostering regional integration, mutual understanding, and shared prosperity across Africa.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with Bahir Dar University and other higher learning institutions by aligning support with national and regional priorities.

This includes facilitating academic partnerships, student and faculty exchanges, and international research cooperation to enhance teaching quality and global engagement.

The ceremony featured cultural performances by students from Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, Somalia, and Tanzania, showcasing the diversity and unity of the African continent.

Bahir Dar University President, Dr. Mengesha Ayene, reiterated the university’s commitment to delivering quality education and providing a supportive academic environment for international students.

Scholarship beneficiaries from across Africa expressed their appreciation to the Government of Ethiopia and Bahir Dar University for the opportunity to pursue higher education, while also thanking the Ethiopian people for their hospitality and warm welcome.

Currently, more than 130 African students are enrolled at Bahir Dar University under regional scholarship programs, underscoring Ethiopia’s enduring role as a hub for Pan-African cooperation and shared development.