Jimma University in collaboration with the University of West Bohemia in Pilson- Czech Republic has organized an exhibition entitled: The 20th Century Revisited: Relations between former Czechoslovakia and Ethiopia’. The Exhibition is opened on May 24th by the Ambassador of Czech Republic to Ethiopia, H.E Mr. Karel Hejč.
Professor Fikre Lemessa, president of Jimma University welcomed the Ambassador and the delegates from the University of West Bohemia at his office. During the welcome, Professor Fikre Lemessa had a brief discussion with the Ambassador about various issues that focused on the historical ties between the two nations and the importance of mutual cooperation. Professor Fikre also appreciated the effort of the University of West Bohemia to establish a meaningful partnership and the great commitment by the Ambassador to pay a visit to Jimma University in order to inaugurate the exhibition, he said this only possible due to the commitment of the university. Professor Fikre Lemessa also extended his appreciation for both the Ambassador and University of West Bohemia for brining this wonderful opportunity to Jimma University and Jimma. He said he is certain that the Exhibition will teach many the importances of ties and good relations. The Ambassador on his part said that Jimma University is one of best if not the best University in Ethiopia. He said he has heard so many good things about Jimma University, most of which is related to Jimma University’s educational philosophy of the ‘Community Based Education’. In his statement the Ambassador mentioned the good things he heard about Jimma university is the result of the good leadership in the University. He underlined that with such wonderful leadership, he is very sure that the University will have so many more successes.
After the welcome and the brief discussion, the Ambassador along with Professor Fikre Lemessa and delegates from both sides joined the senate members, staff of the college of Social Sciences and Humanities and other invited guests to inaugurate the exhibition at the Exhibition Hall of the same college. Dr. Dejene Gemechu, Dean of Social Sciences and Humanities welcomed both the Ambassador and the President. Afterwards the Ambassador and the president delivered a speech underling the importance of collaboration and partnership for institutions such as JU and University of West Bohemia. The Ambassador, H.E Mr. Karel Hejč shared the major historical ties between the two nations and the very important aspects of the current relation between the two nations. After the speeches, the national anthems of both nations were sung. The exhibition will be open for the public for 15 days.
A dinner reception was hosted in honor of the Ambassador; and it was attended by the delegates, Senate members and the staff of college of Social Sciences and Humanities. Towards the end of the reception, Professor Fikre Lemesssa handed over gifts to the Ambassador and the delegates of the University of West Bohemia.