August 30, 2025
Biography of Getatchew Haile — many ask: who is Getatchew Haile, what did he do, and why does he matter today? As time passes and fragile Ethiopian manuscripts face loss, his story feels urgent. This introduction explains his life, work, and impact.
What this biography will cover:
- Early years in Shenkora and formative schooling.
- Studies in Cairo and Germany; mastery of Ge’ez and Semitic languages.
- Scholar and cataloguer of Ethiopian manuscripts; decades of preservation work.
- Injury, exile, and a clear voice for culture and human rights.
- Honors such as MacArthur Fellow; enduring legacy in Ethiopian Studies.
Goal: Understand the person, the scholarship, and why his work still protects a nation’s memory.
Here is what you need to know in the Biography of Getatchew Haile.
Birth and Childhood in Shenkora
Birth and childhood in Shenkora set the foundation for Getatchew Haile’s life and values. He was born in the early 1930s in the rural village of Tute, Shenkora, which was then part of Shewa Province in the Ethiopian Empire. Most sources agree on dates between 1931 and 1932. His home village, nestled in central Ethiopia’s rugged landscape, was far from any city comforts. Life in Shenkora at that time was simple and demanding. Children played in the fields, attended to family tasks, and walked long distances for basic needs or schooling. This rural environment shaped Getatchew’s character, teaching him resilience and a deep connection to Ethiopian culture.
Getatchew’s earliest education took place in his home village. There, community and family played strong roles in nurturing young minds. As a child, Getatchew began serving in the local church, established by his family, particularly his father. The strong sense of kinship and communal responsibility in Shenkora would stay with Getatchew throughout his life, encouraging him to serve not just his family but also the wider Ethiopian community.
Parental Influence and Religious Upbringing
Parental influence and religious upbringing were at the core of Getatchew Haile’s early life. His father, Haile Woldeyes, carried the respected title of Grazmach, a sign of both military and religious honor in Ethiopian society. More than that, he was a dābtära, a learned lay scholar and singer in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. From an early age, Getatchew was surrounded by religious teachings and church music, learning by both example and participation. His father’s commitment to faith and learning was a guiding force.
Getatchew’s family heritage was steeped in Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. The rhythms of church life, the chanting of sacred texts, and the practice of Ge’ez, the ancient liturgical language, were ever-present. This upbringing was not just about faith—it was about maintaining Ethiopian tradition and identity, especially vital during a century marked by change and upheaval. Getatchew’s later achievements in preserving Ethiopian manuscripts and studying Ge’ez can be directly traced back to the religious roots nurtured at home.
Challenges During the Italian Occupation
Challenges during the Italian occupation marked Getatchew’s earliest years with trauma, separation, and uncertainty. When he was a young boy, Fascist Italy invaded and occupied Ethiopia. In Shenkora, the impact was immediate. Many residents, including Getatchew’s family, fled violence and reprisals by the occupiers and their local collaborators, called Banda. Women and children hid in the countryside, moving constantly to avoid danger. Such times brought episodes of homelessness, scarcity, and profound fear.
The Italian occupation divided families. Getatchew’s parents separated during this tumultuous time and he moved to Addis Ababa with his mother. Displacement forced the family to adapt to new surroundings and shaped Getatchew’s view of loss, resistance, and survival. The memory of upheaval never left him, instilling a lifelong sense of duty to defend and preserve his culture. These early hardships would inform his later intellectual work and his commitment to human rights and justice for Ethiopia.
These beginnings—marked by vulnerability, faith, and determination—would shape Getatchew Haile’s entire journey.
Early Education in Ethiopia
Early education in Ethiopia played a critical role in shaping Getatchew Haile. Born in Shenkora, Shewa, Ethiopia, he attended an Ethiopian Orthodox Church school as a child. At the church school, he learned the Ge’ez liturgical language and received a deep grounding in Ethiopian Orthodox faith and tradition. This early religious and linguistic training set the stage for his lifelong engagement with ancient texts and church literature. After his family moved to Addis Ababa, following the end of the Italian occupation, Getatchew pursued his education with greater intensity. His father’s commitment to education helped nurture his scholarly drive, allowing him to develop both academically and spiritually from a young age.
Studies in Cairo: Coptic Theological College and American University
Studies in Cairo expanded Getatchew Haile’s academic world. He attended the Coptic Theological College, where he trained extensively in theology between 1952 and 1957. During these important years, he also joined the extension school at the American University in Cairo. Balancing both programs, he developed linguistic skills, including in Arabic, and deepened his intellectual reach beyond Ethiopia. In 1957, he graduated with a Bachelor’s in Divinity from the Coptic Theological College and a Bachelor of Arts from the American University in Cairo. This double achievement gave him a rare combination of theological knowledge and a solid grounding in the liberal arts, preparing him for the rigorous academic life that awaited.
Advanced Studies in Germany: University of Göttingen and University of Tübingen
Advanced studies in Germany formed the foundation of Getatchew Haile’s scholarly reputation. After finishing his degree work in Cairo, he moved to West Germany in 1957 and initially studied at the University of Göttingen. His goal was to work under famous Ethiopianist scholars. Later, he moved to the University of Tübingen, where he focused on Semitic Philology. In 1962, he completed his Ph.D. at Tübingen with a dissertation on ancient Ethiopian texts. These years in Germany proved to be both challenging and rewarding, for they trained him in Western academic traditions and exposed him to the latest research methods. The experience established Getatchew as one of the first Ethiopians to hold a doctorate in Semitic Philology and set the stage for his celebrated academic and literary contributions to Ethiopian and African Studies.
Academic and Professional Career
Early Career in Ethiopia: Teaching and Ministry Service
Early career in Ethiopia for this influential scholar started with a strong connection to both teaching and religious ministry. Right after his academic training, he returned home with new ideas and a passion for education. He served in parish churches, teaching in schools attached to the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. These early years allowed him to work directly with young Ethiopians. He taught not only religious studies but also touched on ethics and Ethiopian history. This combination of ministry and education was vital. It enabled him to plant seeds of curiosity and faith in his students. His work during this time gained him respect from both church authorities and the local community.
Appointment at Haile Selassie I (Addis Ababa) University
Appointment at Haile Selassie I (later Addis Ababa) University marked a turning point in his professional career. He became one of the first Ethiopians to teach theology and Semitic languages at the university level. This role was groundbreaking because, until then, these subjects were often taught by foreign scholars. His presence showed the academic world that Ethiopians could lead in research about their own culture. He helped develop new curricula for theology, literature, and language studies. These new courses made higher education more accessible and relatable for Ethiopian students. At the university, he also mentored young scholars, some of whom would become important figures in Ethiopia’s future.
Teaching Philosophy and Use of Amharic Language
Teaching philosophy for this scholar emphasized clarity, accessibility, and the use of local languages. He believed that to truly educate and inspire people, you must teach in a language they fully understand. That is why, while he was fluent in Ge’ez, English, and other languages, he insisted on teaching many classes in Amharic. He translated complex religious texts and academic material, making them easy for students to grasp. By using Amharic in the classroom, he promoted pride in Ethiopian culture and fostered a stronger sense of identity. His philosophy also included the idea that teachers should guide students to think for themselves. He encouraged open discussion and critical thinking, a rare approach at the time.
Advocacy and Political Engagement in Ethiopia
Advocacy and political engagement were important aspects of his career, especially as he saw the challenges Ethiopia faced in the 1960s and 1970s. He spoke out about social injustice, lack of educational opportunities, and the need for reform. He pushed for changes in university life, asking for better resources and academic freedom. He also got involved in debates about language policy, defending the use of Ethiopian languages in education and public life. At a time of political tension and unrest, he was not afraid to share his views, even if they were unpopular with those in power. His advocacy often brought him into conflict with political leaders, but he always believed that standing up for what is right is a strong part of a teacher’s duty.
This combination of teaching, ministry, and activism helped shape not just his university, but also influenced Ethiopian society at large.
The Derg Regime and Forced Exile
The Derg Regime triggered a nightmare for Getatchew Haile and many Ethiopian intellectuals. The Derg, a military junta that seized power after overthrowing Emperor Haile Selassie, became infamous for its harsh rule and severe repression of critics. Getatchew Haile was an outspoken critic of both dictator Mengistu Haile Mariam and the Marxist-Leninist Derg regime. Because of his opposition to the government’s human rights abuses and his advocacy for freedom, he became a target for the authorities.
During the Red Terror, many scholars, community leaders, and even students lived in constant danger. Getatchew’s name appeared on lists of people to be captured or silenced. It soon became clear that staying in Ethiopia could cost him his life. As the political climate became even more dangerous, he was left with no choice but to escape his homeland to survive.
Surviving Political Persecution and Injury
Surviving political persecution was no simple matter for Getatchew Haile. In October 1975, Derg soldiers attempted to arrest him. During this terrifying encounter, he was shot by the soldiers, resulting in a severe spinal cord injury. This attack left him a paraplegic, confined to a wheelchair for the rest of his life. The trauma of that day marked both his body and his spirit.
Despite this catastrophic injury, Getatchew Haile’s will to live and continue his work for his country and culture proved unbreakable. The courage he showed during his recovery, and the perseverance he displayed in exile, inspired many Ethiopians both at home and abroad.
Move to England and the United States
The move to England was essential for Getatchew Haile’s survival and future. After the assassination attempt, he was rescued and brought to England, where he could receive advanced medical treatment and begin his rehabilitation. This period was both a time of great challenge and renewal. It allowed him to start imagining the next stage of his life, even when exile was not his choice.
In 1976, Haile and his family immigrated to the United States, where he found a new home far from the violence of his homeland. He settled in Minnesota, where opportunities soon opened for him in the academic world. Exile was not easy, but his spirit and commitment to his people and their heritage did not falter. Instead, he embraced this new life while keeping Ethiopia close to his heart.
Academic Roles in the US: St. John’s University and HMML
Academic roles at St. John’s University and the Hill Museum & Manuscript Library (HMML) brought Getatchew Haile’s passion for Ethiopian studies to an international stage. At St. John’s University, he became Regents Professor of Medieval Studies and Curator of the Ethiopia Study Center at HMML. Here, he worked tirelessly to preserve ancient Ethiopian manuscripts and teach the value of Ge’ez and Ethiopian heritage.
At HMML, Haile was recognized as the world’s leading scholar on the Ge’ez language and Ethiopian manuscripts. He was instrumental in cataloguing thousands of Ethiopian manuscripts and advancing the academic field through his publications, mentorship, and research. His presence was not just scholarly; he also became a beloved community member and a symbol of resilience and hope.
Through these roles, Getatchew Haile ensured that the knowledge, traditions, and voices of Ethiopia would not vanish, even in exile. He trained a generation of scholars and introduced the beauty of Ethiopian literature and language to the world, influencing everyone who met him, inside and outside the university.
Scholarship and Intellectual Legacy
Ethiopic Manuscript Preservation and Cataloguing
Getatchew Haile’s work in Ethiopic manuscript preservation and cataloguing stands at the heart of his scholarly legacy. He became involved with manuscript projects as early as 1973, first teaching in Ethiopia and then dedicating much energy during his years at the Hill Museum & Manuscript Library (HMML). The Ethiopian Manuscript Microfilm Library (EMML) was a groundbreaking initiative, and Prof. Haile catalogued over 5,000 manuscripts, safeguarding invaluable cultural and religious texts.
Microfilm and Manuscript Projects
Microfilm and manuscript projects were crucial to the preservation of Ethiopian ecclesiastical and cultural heritage, especially at times of political unrest. Getatchew Haile worked alongside HMML and other partners to document and catalogue thousands of manuscripts before they could disappear, be destroyed, or end up outside Ethiopia. Notably, his efforts supported the massive Catalogues of the Ethiopic Manuscript Imaging Project. These initiatives made extensive use of microfilm technology to ensure long-term survival of texts. His cataloguing preserved not only the texts themselves but also essential information about their origins, history, and content.
Key Publications and Catalogues
Key publications by Getatchew Haile include major multi-volume catalogues such as “A Catalogue of Ethiopian Manuscripts Microfilmed for the Ethiopian Manuscript Microfilm Library” (EMML) and the “Catalogue of the Ethiopic Manuscript Imaging Project.” These works are still used as the standard references by scholars worldwide. The catalogues are comprehensive, covering thousands of manuscripts with detailed descriptions and scholarly analysis. Through these efforts, Prof. Haile enabled global access to Ethiopian manuscripts, supporting further research in linguistics, church history, and literature.
Research on Semitic Languages and Literature
Research on Semitic languages and literature was another of Getatchew Haile’s major strengths. He was considered the world’s leading authority on Ge‘ez (Classical Ethiopic) and contributed deeply to the wider field of Semitic philology. His knowledge and publications span ancient languages, comparative grammar, and biblical texts.
Comparative Linguistics and Philology
Comparative linguistics and philology formed a large part of Haile’s research. He contributed to the classification of Ethiopian Semitic languages and analyzed their grammar and development in relation to other Semitic languages. His studies applied rigorous methods to ancient Ethiopian texts, leading to clearer understanding of how these languages evolved. Friends and colleagues celebrated his delight in the study of Semitic philology, and his bibliography in festschrifts highlights significant scholarly articles on these topics.
Seminal Works on the Book of Enoch and Old Testament Texts
Seminal works by Getatchew Haile include research on the Book of Enoch and Old Testament texts. He catalogued many Old Testament pseudepigraphal writings found only in Ethiopia, such as 1 Enoch, and his analyses advanced our understanding of their reception and function within Ethiopian Christianity. He contributed to text-critical studies revealing how Ethiopian versions of ancient texts differed from their counterparts elsewhere, often preserving unique content and meanings. His catalogues made it possible to trace biblical and apocryphal books through Ethiopian manuscript traditions.
Teaching, Mentorship, and Curriculum Development
Teaching, mentorship, and curriculum development were central to Prof. Haile’s service both in Ethiopia and abroad. He taught at universities in Ethiopia and the U.S., inspiring a new generation of scholars. His early teaching at Haile Selassie I University shaped many future intellectuals and leaders.
Getatchew Haile mentored many young academics, guiding them in research methods, manuscript preservation, and the importance of Ethiopian language studies. He was active in curriculum development, promoting the use of Amharic and Ge‘ez for instruction in higher education. His work emphasized the importance of rooting scholarship in Ethiopia’s own languages and traditions, a stance that has been praised as both visionary and essential for cultural resilience.
His legacy as a teacher and mentor continues through his students and colleagues who now lead their own research projects, advocating for Ethiopian studies across the world.
MacArthur Fellowship and International Recognition
Getatchew Haile received the MacArthur Fellowship in 1988, an award known as the “genius grant.” This is one of the most respected and coveted honors for intellectuals anywhere in the world. Being the first Ethiopian and the first African to earn this award made his achievement even more groundbreaking. The MacArthur Fellowship recognized not just his remarkable skills in philology and manuscript studies, but also his tireless work preserving Ethiopian cultural heritage. For scholars, students, and Ethiopians globally, Haile’s recognition signaled that Ethiopian studies could achieve high standing on the international stage. Colleagues frequently praised how this award brought more awareness to the values and richness of Ge’ez texts and history. Many tributes noted his lasting impact on international understanding of Ethiopian manuscripts and culture.
British Academy and Edward Ullendorff Medal
Another major honor awarded to Getatchew Haile was the Edward Ullendorff Medal from the British Academy in 2013. This medal is given to scholars with outstanding achievements in Semitic Languages and Ethiopian Studies, and is named after renowned scholar Edward Ullendorff. Haile was also elected a Corresponding Fellow of the British Academy, a rare recognition for someone from outside the UK. Receiving this medal put him in the company of some of the world’s top linguists, philologists, and historians. These awards highlighted the global academic value of his research, teaching, and preservation work. The Ullendorff Medal especially recognized his expertise in Ge’ez literature and his contributions to the understanding of the Ethiopian Orthodox Christian tradition. The awards from well-respected British institutions were a strong statement about his place among world experts on Ethiopia.
Other Academic and Civic Honors
Getatchew Haile’s list of honors goes far beyond just international prizes. He received Ethiopia’s Abebe Bikila Life Time Achievement Award in 2018, a rare honor for an academic, recognizing his work as a cultural and intellectual ambassador. He was also celebrated with a Festschrift (a published tribute volume of essays by other scholars) in 2017, titled “Studies in Ethiopian Languages, Literature and History.” This type of recognition is typically given only to scholars who have trained and influenced an entire generation of researchers.
As a member of the Academy of Social Sciences of Addis Ababa and as Associate Editor of the “Aethiopica” journal, Haile played a key role in the growth of Ethiopian scholarship at home and abroad. Academic departments internationally often cited his achievements when inviting him to speak or serve as an advisor. His work was frequently recognized in community tributes, at conferences, and by the institutions he helped build, such as HMML and St. John’s University.
Across all these achievements, Getatchew Haile’s reputation as a gentle, determined, and highly ethical scholar left a powerful impression on every institution and community he touched. He became a role model, not only for his intellect but for using his honors to defend Ethiopian heritage and promote respect for Ethiopian studies around the globe.
Marriage to Misrak Amare and Family
Marriage to Misrak Amare was a turning point in Getatchew Haile’s personal life. He married Misrak on July 12, 1964, beginning a partnership that would last through decades of hardship and joy. Together, they raised a large and loving family, with four biological children, adopted two more, and welcomed many grandchildren over the years. Family was always at the center of Getatchew’s life, and his bond with his wife Misrak was central to his resilience and strength. According to family statements and public records, his children and grandchildren were a deep source of pride and comfort for him, and he valued every moment with them. Even in times of exile and uncertainty, Getatchew found his greatest support in his family’s unity and love.
Life in Minnesota and Community Engagement
Life in Minnesota brought new opportunities and challenges for Getatchew Haile. After relocating in the mid-1970s due to political upheaval in Ethiopia, the Haile family settled in Saint Cloud, Minnesota. Here, Getatchew and Misrak became cherished members of the local community. They opened their home to neighbors, built friendships across cultures, and enriched the lives of many through their warmth and generosity. Community gatherings at their house became well-loved events, bridging Ethiopian traditions with Minnesotan life. Getatchew contributed not just through his scholarship at St. John’s University, but also by quietly mentoring local students and supporting fellow immigrants as they adapted to American life. His engagement with the Minnesota community showed that his sense of service and kindness extended far beyond academic circles.
Commitment to Ethiopian Orthodox Faith
Commitment to the Ethiopian Orthodox faith shaped Getatchew Haile’s character and guided his values. Raised in the traditions of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, he continued to practice his faith throughout his life in exile and abroad. His academic work reflected a deep respect for the church’s history, liturgy, and teachings, making him a recognized authority in religious scholarship. More importantly, friends and family often described Getatchew as a truly faithful man. His daily life was marked by prayer, humility, honesty, and a gentle devotion to service, all rooted in his Christian beliefs. Even as he worked and lived far from Ethiopia, his faith remained a source of inner peace and resilience, quietly guiding his actions in academia, family life, and the wider community.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Resilience defined Getatchew Haile’s journey through life’s challenges. He survived personal tragedy and political violence, including life-threatening injury and exile from his homeland. Throughout these adversities, Getatchew remained courageous and steadfast, never losing his compassion or generosity. Colleagues, friends, and family speak of his profound courage in overcoming obstacles that would have broken many others. He met each new difficulty with hope and faith, refusing to let hardship define his spirit. This resilience was not only admired by his loved ones but also inspired generations of students and scholars. Even in the face of significant loss, Getatchew’s unfailing kindness and optimism stood as a powerful example of strength in adversity. His life teaches us that hope, family, faith, and determination can overcome even the harshest of circumstances.
Return to Family and Move to New York
In his final years, Getatchew Haile made an important decision for his wellbeing and family ties. After decades spent building his legacy in Minnesota, he and his beloved wife Misrak chose to move to New York to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Moving to New York in 2016 brought him back into the daily orbit of his family, a comfort during his later years. Even though the Kreigle Lake house in Minnesota remained a place of fond memories, the sense of closeness and support from family in New York meant everything to him. Surrounded by the warmth and love of those dearest to him, Haile faced the challenges of his last years with courage and grace. He passed away on June 10, 2021, at Mount Sinai Morningside hospital, always accompanied by family.
Completion of Final Works and Last Contributions
Even in his final years, Getatchew Haile did not slow down in his scholarly pursuits. He remained deeply engaged with research, writing, and correspondence with colleagues near and far. His work on Ethiopic manuscripts, especially the ongoing cataloguing of the Ethiopian Manuscript Microfilm Library (EMML), continued almost up to his last days. These contributions have had a lasting effect on the preservation of Ethiopian heritage. He also worked on guiding young scholars and providing direction for future academic projects. Haile’s meticulous analysis and attention to detail set the standard for the study of Ethiopian language and history. His final works continue to inspire researchers around the world, keeping the history and culture of Ethiopia alive for future generations.
Memorials and Tributes
After Getatchew Haile’s passing, memorials and tributes poured in from around the world. His funeral service was held at Saint John’s Abbey Church in Minnesota, in a setting surrounded by the woods that had been so much a part of his life. His family, friends, and colleagues remembered him as a brilliant scholar, a loving family man, and a pillar of the Ethiopian community. Websites were created to honor his memory, sharing tributes from those whose lives he touched. Scholars, students, and community leaders paid their respects, emphasizing his impact on the preservation of Ethiopian manuscripts and the advancement of scholarship. Getatchew Haile’s influence lives on, not only in academic circles, but wherever people value cultural preservation, truth, and resilience. The memory of his dedication and kindness continues to shine, ensuring that his legacy will not be forgotten.
Advancement of Ethiopian Language, Literature, and Culture
Advancement of Ethiopian language, literature, and culture is central to the legacy of great Ethiopian scholars. These intellectuals, using languages like Ge’ez and Amharic, produced works that connect modern Ethiopia to its ancient roots. Ethiopian scholars have not only preserved important manuscripts but also made them available to the wider world, showing the depth of the country’s intellectual tradition. According to sources like Britannica and Africanhistoryextra, they played a vital role in keeping Ge’ez alive as a scholarly and liturgical language, while also helping Amharic flourish as a literary language.
Ethiopian intellectuals took pride in writing, translating, and explaining religious, legal, and philosophical texts. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church, as noted on Ethiopianorthodox.org, was a key contributor by encouraging writing and the preservation of valuable books, especially illuminated manuscripts. These contributions not only enriched Ethiopia’s artistic legacy but also shaped how Ethiopians see their identity. Scholars push for the indigenization of thought and culture, fighting eurocentric bias and helping Ethiopians reclaim their rich heritage, as discussed on Oxford Public Philosophy.
Influence on Human Rights and Advocacy
Influence on human rights and advocacy is another profound impact of Ethiopian scholars. Many have bridged the world of academia and social justice, taking stands for freedom and equality, especially during tough political times. Recent articles from sources like Northwestern University’s scholarlycommons and Tandfonline highlight how Ethiopian academics, practitioners, and advocates worked tirelessly for better human rights and justice.
Scholars were not just bystanders. They often risked their safety to criticize authoritarianism and to champion the rights of marginalized groups. Their work influenced social work education and helped build movements that sought equal treatment for all citizens, according to research on Tandfonline. Organizations like CEHRO, as described on CSO Standard, were led by these advocates and helped reform oppressive laws. Ethiopian academics consistently connected scholarship with the fight for rights and dignity, showing that learning and social action go hand in hand.
Mentoring the Next Generation
Mentoring the next generation is at the heart of sustaining and growing Ethiopia’s intellectual community. Ethiopian scholars, through formal and informal programs, serve as role models to young students, helping them gain both knowledge and confidence. Modern mentorship projects, highlighted by ECSAC and allAfrica, pair experienced academics, professionals, and leaders with emerging talents. This passing down of wisdom supports new generations to strive for excellence and stay connected to their roots.
Mentoring is not limited to university students or professionals; it starts at home and in the community. Stories featured by Arukah Global and EOTC Mentors show how spiritual, educational, and life values get handed down. Through leadership programs and personal storytelling, these mentors inspire courage and resilience in young Ethiopians. This cycle is vital for keeping traditions alive and ensuring that Ethiopia’s best minds continue to rise for the country’s progress.
Why His Legacy Must Not Fade
Why his legacy must not fade is a question of national identity and collective memory. The importance and preservation of Ethiopian scholarly legacy have been discussed in sources like EthiopianCrown.org and ERC.europa.eu. These writings emphasize that Ethiopia has one of the richest, most ancient traditions of written culture in sub-Saharan Africa. Manuscripts, oral histories, and works of art are not just national treasures—they are lessons, warnings, and sources of hope for the future.
The scholarly legacy of Ethiopian intellectuals is threatened by time, conflict, and, at times, carelessness. Preservation is about honoring those who came before and creating opportunities for future generations to learn and be inspired. If we forget or neglect these achievements, we risk losing vital parts of Ethiopian identity and wisdom. This is why remembering, celebrating, and sustaining the work of Ethiopia’s scholars is not just a cultural act but a moral obligation for all Ethiopians and friends of Ethiopia worldwide.
This legacy is a reminder that resilience, learning, and justice are woven into Ethiopia’s story—and must remain so for generations to come.