Feyera Dinsa (Ph.D)

Salale University Holds Workshop Honoring the Contributions of Honorary Doctor Abebech Gobena: Forerunner of Philanthropic in Ethiopia

Salale University Holds Workshop Honoring the Contributions of Honorary Doctor Abebech Gobena: Forerunner of Philanthropic in Ethiopia

The College of Social Sciences and Humanities at Salale University organized a workshop to honor the life and humanitarian legacy of Abebech Gobena, widely recognized as a pioneer of philanthropy and community service in Ethiopia.

The event brought together university leaders, academic staff, students, and invited guests to reflect on Abebech Gobena’s contributions and explore the relevance of humanitarian values in contemporary society.

The program officially began with a welcoming speech by Mrs. Tiringo Nigussie, Executive of Women and Social Affairs mainstreaming implementation office, followed by opening remarks delivered by Dr. Eshetu Wondimu, Head of the President’s Office, who emphasized the importance of honoring national role models and promoting universities’ roles in preserving social values and community service.

Keynote speaker Mr. Firomsa Gudina, representing the Abebech Gobena Charity, called on participants to actively embrace compassion, courage, morality, and humanity in both their personal and professional lives. He emphasized that academic achievements gain true meaning only when applied to addressing human challenges, urging scholars to honor the legacy of Abebech Gobena by translating inspiration into tangible commitments to solve problems and serve communities. His speech highlighted the enduring relevance of Abebech Gobena’s values in fostering social transformation and community-centered care across Ethiopia.

Presentations by faculty members featured Mr. Gemechis Tesfaye from the Social Anthropology Department, who addressed humanitarianism and the legacy of Honorary Doctor Abebech Gobena, and Mrs. Mahider Dadi from the Sociology Department, who discussed transformative philanthropy of Abebech Gobena:Civil society expansion, gendered leadership and institutional social change in Ethiopia.

The discussion session was led by Dr. Feyera Dinsa, President of Salale University, and Dr. Tsegaye Deyou, Vice President for Academic and Research Affairs, providing participants the opportunity to engage critically with the themes presented and propose recommendations for strengthening community engagement within higher education institutions.

Participants emphasized the need to integrate experiential learning, civic engagement, and research on indigenous philanthropy into academic programs, and called for initiatives to institutionalize the legacy of Abebech Gobena, ensuring that scholarship remains closely connected to community development.

The workshop concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Feyera Dinsa, President of Salale University, who highlighted that the university has already honored Dr. Abebech Gobena by naming its College of Health Sciences, commemorating her contributions. He underscored that this milestone represents only the beginning, and that the university is committed to further institutionalizing and expanding her legacy.

Dr. Feyera encouraged students, faculty, and the broader community to take an active role in initiatives that carry forward Abebech Gobena’s vision, ensuring that her enduring values of humanitarian service, community development, and social responsibility continue to inspire and guide future generations.

Reporter :-Urge Gemechu

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