IOS at JU conducted a historic seminar deliberating on the story of Qubee and folklore as a foundation of Oromoo Literature from January 22-23, 2019. The seminar was inaugurated by Mr. Kora Tushune, Acting President of Jimma University, who warmly welcomed the honorable guest speakers, and reflected on the contributions of JU in the development of Oromoo scholarship. JU Senate, staff and students attended the event.
During the first day renowned Oromoo scholars Obbo Ibsaa Guutamaa and Prof. Mekuria Bulcha made enlightening speeches on the experience of institutionalizing Qubee in formal education, and the journey and prospects of Afaan Oromoo literacy while tracing indelible contributions of Oromoo diaspora beginning from 1840s.
The celebrated Oromoo poet Zelalem Abera made a thoughtful and entertaining presentation on folklore as a base for the development of Oromoo literature. He also recited some of his melodious, powerful and symbolic poems. A stylistic analysis his poem ‘Ana Ana fi Ani’ was presented by Dr. Teshome Egere, and a monologue of his poem ‘Jedhe Diggaa Saaqoo’ was performed live on the stage by Lalisa Tafarra, a 4th year student of the Department of Theatre Arts. Participants of the seminar engaged in insightful discussions.
JU is grateful to the honorable guests for the historic seminar and to all who made it a success.
