Education is not a privilege, it is a human right.

By Habtamu Kebede

The closure of the Department of Tigrigna Language, Literature and Folklore at Addis Ababa University is a contentious issue, as the reasoning behind it remains unclear. The Ethiopian Insider article attempts to provide an explanation, but it is not only unconvincing, but also absurd. This is particularly concerning given the current state of the country, which has been embroiled in war since Abiy Ahmed took office.

The impact of this conflict on the education system cannot be ignored, as schools have not only struggled to produce competent students, but have also been destroyed beyond repair. As a result, it is unreasonable to expect the Department of Tigrigna Language, Literature and Folklore to have a high enrollment rate. The argument presented in the article is riddled with fallacies and lacks credibility, and the decision to close the department is a disservice to Ethiopian society.

Instead of closing the department, they should have focused on providing adequate funding and educational materials to K-12 schools. This would have better prepared students for college-level education. Unfortunately, the focus was not on investing in the future generation’s education. Instead, it was on luxurious lodges and unnecessary corridor projects.

Education is not a privilege, it is a human right. All school-age children, adolescents, and young adults should have access to education in their chosen discipline. Furthermore, closing the only school available for students who speak the language during a time when people are recovering from a devastating and senseless war is not only traumatizing, but it also sends a harmful and dangerous message to the affected communities.

It is not entirely unreasonable to speculate about the motives behind this decision. As is well known, schools are places where students learn about a variety of subjects and develop a lifelong understanding. In this particular case, if a student moves from Tigray to attend the Department of Tigrigna Language, Literature and Folklore at Addis Ababa University, they will likely have the opportunity to interact with the local community and students from diverse backgrounds. This interaction has the potential to leave a lasting positive impact on future generations.

It is unclear if the government is intentionally using the education system to promote division and harm within society, potentially weakening the social fabric of the nation. This decision is concerning and we must all be equally alarmed by its damaging effects. It is crucial that we unite and voice our concerns, making it clear to those in power that their harmful actions must be stopped. Let us unite and protest against these destructive decision.