President Sahlework Zewde urged graduating students of Addis Ababa University (AAU) to contribute to the country’s economic development endeavors through entrepreneurship.

Addis Ababa University graduated today 8,868 students in different programs at the Millennium Hall.

At the ceremony, the president appreciated the graduates for overcoming obstacles and achieving their goal of seeking knowledge and wisdom.

The president stressed that this year’s graduates are expected to make significant contributions to the country’s economic development endeavors through entrepreneurship.

“You [graduates] are expected to create your jobs, in pairs or in groups or by being hired in the private sector,” she said.

In this regard, the government will provide all the necessary support, including work space, market connectivity, material and logistics supply as well as other supports.

Lauding the Addis Ababa University for serving Ethiopia in various fields, President Sahlework called on the university to expand its vision by offering scholarships for other African students to strengthen brotherhood, work together, and grow together.

Addis Ababa University President, Professor Tasew Woldehanna said on his part the graduate students should be ready to work for the development of the country with the help of new methods in their fields of study.

He noted that 85 percent of the students who took the recent exit exam have passed the exam and added that the graduates were given technological and other practical training so that they can perform better when they enter the world of work.

Therefore, “you should prepare to develop your country and serve your people in the future,” he underscored.

Noting that Addis Ababa University has produced many scholars who have made and are making outstanding contributions to scientific research both outside the country and in the world, Professor Tasew said the university will continue to strengthen the work of producing scholars who will contribute to the country and beyond.

He added that the university has been improving its international competitiveness by publishing various research papers in world-renowned and influential journals every year.

Today’s graduation event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Demeke Mekonnen, families of the graduates, and other guests.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency