The construction of newly built Institute of Ethiopian Studies Library of Addis Ababa University is fully funded by MIDROC Ethiopia, that billionaire Al-Amoudi donated more than 116 million birr.
ADDIS ABABA (AAU) – Addis Ababa University (AAU) inaugurated the newly constructed Institute of Ethiopian Studies Library (IESL), which was fully funded by MIDROC Ethiopia at Sadist Kilo (Main) Campus.
On his welcoming speech, Arega Yirdaw, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of MIDROC Technology Group and President of Unity University, said the library was fully funded and donated by Sheik Mohammed Hussein Ali Al-Amoudi, Chairman and owner of MIDROC Ethiopia.
“To meet the demands of the Institution at some point, the handover of the proudly built library is aimed to help researchers. I strongly believe that the University takes the responsibility in keeping the building safe and overseeing the overall activities of the library,” Dr. Arega noted.
He added that Sheik Ali Al-Amoudi is a successful businessman who has played a pivotal role in various development projects in Ethiopia. He further explained that Al-Amoudi has contributed a lot for the expansion and advancement of education all over the country. “So, this facility is dedicated to him and named as Sheik Mohammed Hussein Ali Al-Amoudi Building”, he added.
Professor Tassew Woldehanna, President of AAU, on his part said the inauguration is a special moment which is held on the eve of the University’s 2019 Commencement Day.
“The construction agreement was signed between Professor Andreas Eshete, ex-president of AAU and Sheik Mohammed Hussein Ali Al-Amoudi. Al-Amoudi has paid more than 116 million birr to make the project real,” Professor Tassew expressed.
“I would like to tell you with a great pleasure that the building has bureaus, reading rooms, assembly hall, exhibition center and different classes. The facility is aimed to bolster the teaching-learning process, the conduct of extensive research and community service projects,” he explained.
Speaking on the occasion, Her Excellency Professor Hirut Weldemariam, Minister of FDRE’s Science and Higher Education, said Sheik Mohammed Hussein Ali Al-Amoudi is a key individual in supporting the government for the expansion of quality education and construction of buildings such as the one being inaugurated.
“To bring about serious reforms in the education sector, stakeholders, investors and other concerned bodies should work with the government hand in hand and take part in the advancement role,” she emphasized.
“For researching ancient Ethiopia, its traditions, cultures, languages, beliefs, antiques, sculptures, wisdom and historic events, I believe the newly built library will have a great deal of benefits,” she noted.
At the conclusion of the event, Professor Tassew Woldehanna, Her Excellency Professor Hirut Weldemariam, Dr. Arega Yirdaw and other guests of honor have planted trees around the new Institute of Ethiopian Studies Library.
Source: AAU